Landing (Aeroplane) in New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL)

The sign for “landing (aeroplane)airplane lands, flight arrival tau maive” is used in the New Zealand Deaf community to indicate when an airplane has touched down at an airport. It’s a practical sign for conversations about travel, arrivals, and aviation, often used in contexts involving flight schedules or airport discussions.

How to Sign “Landing (Aeroplane)Airplane Lands, Flight Arrivaltau Maiverb” in NZSL

1. Start with your dominant hand in a flat handshape (like a ‘B’ handshape), palm facing down.
2. Position your hand about shoulder height, slightly extended to the side.
3. Move your hand downwards in a smooth motion to indicate the airplane descending.
4. As your hand approaches the level of your waist, tilt your palm towards your body to represent the airplane landing on the ground.
5. Maintain a neutral facial expression, but you can add a slight nod to show the action is complete, indicating the plane has landed.

Common Mistakes

• Some learners may forget to tilt their palm towards the body at the end of the sign, which can lead to confusion about the action.
• Using an incorrect handshape, such as a fist instead of a flat hand, can change the meaning of the sign.
• Not using enough downward movement may cause the sign to appear unclear or incomplete.

NZSL vs ASL

In NZSL, the sign for “landing” incorporates a downward motion that mimics the descent of an aircraft, while in ASL, the sign may use different handshapes and movements to convey the same concept. Understanding these differences is important for effective communication across different sign languages.

Related Signs

• (All Of) You – A sign used to refer to a group.
• (Baby’s) Dummy – A sign for a pacifier or soother.
• (Be) Careful – A sign to express caution.
• (Be) Born, (Give) Birth – A sign related to childbirth.
• (Be) Passive – A sign indicating a state of being.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I use “landing” in a sentence?

You can say, “The airplane is landing” by combining the sign for ‘airplane’ followed by ‘landing’.

Are there regional variations in the sign for landing?

While the sign is generally consistent across New Zealand, some regions may have slight variations in hand movement or speed.

Is “landing” similar to any other signs?

Yes, it can be similar to signs for ‘take-off’ or ‘arrival’, but the motion will differ to indicate the specific action.

What are some tips for learning this sign?

Practice in front of a mirror to observe your handshape and movement, and try to watch native users sign for guidance.

Can I use this sign in a group setting?

Absolutely! It’s commonly used to inform others about flight arrivals during discussions or at gatherings.

What is the cultural significance of aviation in the Deaf community?

Aviation connects communities, and understanding signs related to travel enhances communication and inclusivity for Deaf individuals.

Where can I find more resources for learning NZSL?

Check local Deaf organisations and online platforms dedicated to teaching NZSL for more comprehensive resources.