Rupert Goodwins' Diary 16.11.2001

Monday 12/11/2001

Some discussion on Pprune, the pilots' bulletin board, catches my eye. Those aircraft spotters who got arrested in Greece for airshow jinks come up for some less than encouraging comments: it's safe to say that aircrew in general -- and those from abroad in particular -- cannot see the point in people trying to collect aircraft numbers, let alone in taking great risks with military police in unsympathetic countries.

But just in case you are planning to emulate those unlucky few, here's a sneak preview of next year's Greek GSCE exam.

Translate the following phrases into demotic Greek (10 marks): 1. I am only looking at your planes because they give me a stiffie. 2. The weather is hot, but I will not remove my anorak. 3. This taramasalata in pitta bread is no good. Do you have fishpaste in Kingsmill? 4. My scanner has fallen into the ouzo. 5. Although these are times of international tension, I assert my basic human right to fill my notebook with details of your air movements. 6. Your airfield is big, but not as big as that of the Turks. 7. Ouch. Please use a rubber glove when you remove my biro. 8. Is that an electronic intelligence gathering aircraft hiding behind the tree? 9. Ouch. Ouch. Please use a rubber glove when you remove my copy of Jane's. 10. And let me know if you ever do find the biro.