Glossary of “Conventional”, “Traditional or Standard”, and “General”: Definitions, Distinctions, and Usage

Conventional

Conventional refers to practices, methods, or standards that are widely accepted, recognized, or utilized at a given time within a group, industry, or society. In aviation, engineering, and regulatory contexts, “conventional” is used to distinguish mainstream or commonly used systems from innovative, experimental, or alternative ones. For example, conventional landing gear denotes the classic tailwheel configuration as opposed to modern tricycle arrangements. The term is not limited by historical duration; instead, it focuses on what is currently mainstream or socially endorsed, even if the convention is relatively recent.

In technical use, conventional can describe fuels (as in “conventional jet fuel” derived from petroleum as opposed to synthetic fuels), navigation methods (such as ground-based navaids versus satellite navigation), or airspace classifications (conventional airspace defined by standard ICAO procedures). ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization) documentation, such as Annex 14 and PANS-OPS, frequently contrasts conventional procedures (those based on non-precision ground navaids) with performance-based navigation (PBN) or area navigation (RNAV).

The connotation of conventional can be neutral or, in some contexts, slightly negative, implying a lack of innovation or reluctance to adopt new approaches. This is particularly evident in phrases like “conventional wisdom,” which refers to commonly-held beliefs that may not stand up to scrutiny. In regulatory language, however, “conventional” is precise, distinguishing between legacy systems and new standards.

Use in Aviation:

• Conventional Instrument Approach: An approach procedure using ground-based navigation aids such as VOR, NDB, or ILS, as opposed to satellite-based RNAV approaches.
• Conventional Aircraft: Fixed-wing aircraft designed according to broadly-accepted aerodynamic and structural principles, as opposed to experimental or unconventional configurations (e.g., blended wing body or canard layouts).

ICAO References:
ICAO Annex 10 and PANS-OPS documents define conventional navigation as procedures reliant on ground-based navaids, which are subject to signal limitations such as line-of-sight, interference, and coverage constraints. The transition from conventional procedures to PBN is central to modernizing global airspace systems.

Table: Conventional vs. Non-Conventional in Aviation

Traditional

Traditional refers to practices, beliefs, methods, or objects that are rooted in longstanding heritage, cultural transmission, or historical continuity. In technical domains, including aviation and engineering, “traditional” often overlaps with “conventional,” but its defining feature is the passage of knowledge or practice through generations, typically without interruption. The term embodies an element of respect for the past, for time-tested wisdom, and for continuity.

A traditional system is valued for its reliability and established record. For example, traditional navigation in aviation—using VOR, NDB, and ILS—remains in use in many regions not only because it is conventional, but because it is built upon decades of operational experience and regulatory endorsement. In maintenance or construction, traditional methods denote those taught and refined over many years, as opposed to those stemming from recent technological advances.

In ICAO Documentation:
ICAO often uses “traditional” in the context of procedures or systems that predate performance-based navigation or satellite-based surveillance. For instance, traditional separation standards are based on procedural control and radar, while modern systems may use ADS-B or other surveillance technologies.

Contrast with Modernity:
Traditional is often juxtaposed with modern, innovative, or “next-generation” systems. In regulatory and safety discussions, maintaining traditional systems may be required until new technology proves equivalent or superior in reliability and safety—a concept known as “grandfathering.”

Use in Aviation:

• Traditional Approach Procedures: Procedures designed before the adoption of PBN, typically based on legacy ground-based navigation.
• Traditional Air Traffic Control: Manual, voice-based coordination of aircraft, as opposed to digital or automated systems.

Cultural Significance:
The term extends to ceremonial or operational customs within aviation organizations, such as traditional preflight briefings, uniform codes, or commemorative events, emphasizing their historic roots.

Table: Traditional vs. Modern in Aviation

Standard

Standard denotes a formalized, established norm, specification, or requirement recognized and enforced by an authoritative body such as ICAO, EASA, FAA, IATA, or an industry consortium. In aviation, standards underpin everything from aircraft design and manufacturing to operational procedures, maintenance practices, and airspace management. Standards ensure interoperability, safety, reliability, and consistency across the global aviation system.

A standard may be codified in regulatory documents, such as ICAO Annexes (e.g., Annex 14 for aerodromes, Annex 6 for operations), national aviation regulations, or industry standards (such as SAE, ISO, or ARINC specifications). Standards are subject to periodic review and update, reflecting technological advancement, operational experience, and international consensus.

Key Aspects:

• Authority: Standards are established by recognized bodies, and compliance is often mandatory (for regulatory standards) or essential for commercial interoperability (for industry standards).
• Scope: Standards can apply globally (ICAO SARPs), regionally (EASA regulations), or within specific sectors (IATA Operational Safety Audit).
• Enforcement: Regulatory authorities, oversight organizations, or industry groups monitor and enforce adherence to standards.

Examples in Aviation:

• Runway Marking Standards: ICAO Annex 14 specifies the dimensions, colors, and layouts for runway markings to ensure consistency and safety at aerodromes worldwide.
• Aircraft Certification Standards: ICAO Annex 8 and EASA Part 21 set out the requirements for aircraft airworthiness certification.
• Operational Standards: ICAO and IATA publish standard operating procedures for flight crews, maintenance personnel, and air traffic controllers.

Comparison with Other Terms:
While “conventional” and “traditional” refer to what is commonly practiced, “standard” implies formal adoption and codification. For example, a “standard instrument departure” (SID) is a published procedure meeting specific criteria, while a “conventional departure” may simply describe the way departures have been historically executed.

Table: Examples of Aviation Standards

General

General is an adjective describing something that is widespread, non-specific, or broadly applicable, as opposed to being specialized, detailed, or limited in scope. In aviation and technical language, “general” often modifies terms to indicate inclusivity or non-specificity, such as “general aviation,” “general procedures,” or “general requirements.”

General Aviation (GA):
One of the most prominent uses of “general” in aviation is “general aviation,” which encompasses all civil aviation operations other than scheduled commercial airline service and military aviation. This includes private flying, flight training, agricultural aviation, aerial firefighting, air ambulance, and more. ICAO defines general aviation as all civil aviation operations other than commercial air transport or aerial work.

General Procedures:
In operational manuals and regulatory documents, “general” sections provide overarching requirements or guidance applicable regardless of specific circumstances or categories. For example, general maintenance procedures outline mandatory practices for all aircraft types, before detailing type-specific tasks.

General Requirements:
In standards, “general requirements” articulate minimum conditions or baseline expectations applicable across multiple systems or situations. Detailed or specific requirements follow in subsequent sections.

Contrast with Specificity:
“General” is the antonym of “specific.” General procedures offer flexibility and adaptability, but may lack the precision of detailed instructions. The use of “general” is critical in regulatory drafting, where it is used to set out principles, with specifics provided elsewhere.

Table: General vs. Specific in Aviation

Orthodox

Orthodox is a term denoting strict adherence to established doctrines, beliefs, or practices, particularly within religious, academic, or ideological frameworks. In the broader sense, it refers to methods or practices considered authoritatively correct, with little tolerance for deviation. The word is less commonly used in aviation or engineering, but in regulatory or procedural contexts, it may describe adherence to a strict interpretation of established rules or methods.

Orthodox in Regulatory Contexts:
In safety-critical industries such as aviation, an “orthodox” interpretation of regulatory standards may be required to ensure the highest levels of safety and compliance. For example, strictly following ICAO Annex 6 operational procedures, without deviation, may be described as taking an orthodox approach to safety management.

Comparison:

• Traditional allows for some adaptation and evolution over time, while orthodox implies rigidity and resistance to change.
• Conventional may denote current practice, but orthodox specifically connotes what is officially sanctioned as correct.

Examples in Use:

• Orthodox Maintenance: Following the exact procedures as outlined in the aircraft maintenance manual, with no deviations or “field” modifications.
• Orthodox Pilot Training: Rigid adherence to established syllabi and assessment methods, as opposed to introducing scenario-based or adaptive learning techniques.

In Other Domains:
Orthodox is more frequently applied in religion (e.g., Orthodox Christianity), academic theories, or political ideologies, denoting strict, literal interpretation of foundational texts or doctrines.

Distinctions and Overlaps

The terms “conventional,” “traditional,” “standard,” “general,” and “orthodox” frequently intersect, but each carries distinct nuances, especially in technical and regulatory contexts. Understanding these distinctions is vital for precise communication in aviation and engineering.

• Conventional vs. Traditional:
  Conventional refers to what is currently common or accepted, regardless of historical depth. Traditional emphasizes long-standing heritage and cultural continuity.

• Conventional vs. Standard:
  Standard implies formal adoption by an authority and may or may not reflect prevailing convention.

• General vs. Specific:
  General applies broadly, without detail or limitation, while specific denotes a narrow, detailed focus.

• Orthodox vs. Traditional/Conventional:
  Orthodox indicates rigid, officially sanctioned adherence, while traditional allows for some evolution, and conventional refers to what is typical at present.

Table: Distinctive Features

Contextual Usage

Everyday Language

In non-technical usage, these terms often blend. For example, a “conventional greeting” means a common way to say hello, not necessarily tied to tradition. A “traditional recipe” implies one handed down over generations. “Standard practice” refers to the commonly accepted way of doing something, often codified in workplace manuals. A “general rule” means a guideline that applies in most situations.

Finance

Conventional Loans:
In finance, a “conventional loan” is a mortgage not insured or guaranteed by government agencies. These loans typically require higher credit scores and larger down payments but may offer better terms for qualified borrowers.

Construction and Engineering

Traditional/Conventional Procurement:
In construction, “traditional” or “conventional” procurement refers to a method where design is completed before construction, with separate contracts for designers and builders. “Standard” procedures or materials are those specified by national or international codes.

Education

Conventional Teaching Methods:
“Conventional” education includes lectures, rote memorization, and standardized testing. “Traditional” education may emphasize classical subjects and pedagogical approaches.

Medicine

Conventional Medicine:
Refers to treatments and practices widely accepted and practiced by the mainstream medical community, often supported by scientific evidence and regulatory approval. This contrasts with “traditional medicine,” which includes indigenous and historical healing practices.

Example Sentences and Parallel Usage

• “Conventional aircraft rely on mechanical flight controls, while modern designs may use fly-by-wire systems.”
• “Traditional flight training placed heavy emphasis on stick-and-rudder skills.”
• “All runways must meet ICAO Annex 14 standards for markings and lighting.”
• “General aviation includes everything from gliders to business jets.”
• “Orthodox procedures require strict compliance with every checklist item, with no exceptions.”

Antonyms, Synonyms, and Related Terms