Airmanship

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. The combination of skills, knowledge, and techniques necessary for the safe and effective operation of an aircraft involves practical experience and theoretical understanding
2. The capability and expertise necessary to operate an aircraft safely encompasses both technical skills and a thorough understanding of aviation principles
3. The quality of having proficient flying skills and sound judgment during aircraft operation

Etymology: "Airmanship" is a plain compound: "airman" plus the suffix "-ship," which turns a noun into a word for a quality, skill or art connected with that noun. "Airman" itself is built from "air" and "man," and it has long been used for a person who flies an aircraft. Put together, the word names the skill of an airman, meaning the practical ability to handle an aircraft well. The suffix does the real work here. "-ship" appears in older English words such as "friendship" and "craftsmanship," and attaching it to "airman" follows that pattern exactly, so the word needed no special invention beyond the two parts already in place.

Synonyms: aviation skill, pilotage, flying skills, flight expertise, navigation ability