Aircrewmen

/ˈɛːkruːmən/ noun

Definition

The plural form of aircrewman; multiple male members of an aircraft operating crew.

Etymology

Standard plural of 'aircrewman' using the '-men' suffix, common in military air force vocabulary through the late 20th century.

Kelly Says

The term 'aircrewmen' was especially common describing WWII bomber crews, where 10-man teams developed intense bonds—their collective terminology created a strong sense of unit identity and shared purpose.

Ethical Language Guidance

Gender History

Plural of gendered rank, presuming male default for aviation crew. Formalized at moment when women were simultaneously serving but not integrated into rank nomenclature.

Inclusive Usage

Use 'aircrew members' or 'flight crew members' for inclusive reference. Gendered plural appropriate only in historical context with acknowledgment of erased women.

Inclusive Alternatives

["aircrew members","flight crew members","crew members"]

Empowerment Note

Women who served as pilots, navigators, and crew members were essential to wartime aviation and postwar civil aviation; formal gendered titles sometimes obscured their presence and achievements.

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