Definition
A standard radiotelephony phrase used to indicate that the speaker is about to repeat all or part of a previous transmission, usually because the message was missed, garbled, or to emphasize accuracy of critical information.
Plain English
A pilot or controller says this on the radio to signal: "I am about to repeat what I just said." It tells the listener the next words are a repeat, not new information.
Context Anchor
Used in pilot and air traffic control radio communications when a message needs to be repeated for clarity or emphasis.
Why Pilots Care
Clear repetition prevents misheard clearances, headings, or altitudes that could lead to errors or unsafe situations.
Intuition Check
Do not confuse “I say again” with a casual habit of repeating yourself. On the radio, it is a clear signal that the next words are an intentional repeat of the message.
Example Sentence 1
"Cessna Three-Four-Romeo, descend and maintain four thousand. I say again, descend and maintain four thousand."
Example Sentence 2
Approach, I say again, we are requesting lower altitude due to icing.