on the air
/ɒn ðə ɛər/
Meaning
Currently broadcasting on radio, television, or the internet. It can also refer to a show that is actively running or being produced for broadcast.
Examples
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Please be quiet in the hallway; the radio host is currently on the air.
Please be quiet in the hallway; the radio host is currently on the air.
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That popular sitcom was on the air for over ten seasons before it ended.
That popular sitcom was on the air for over ten seasons before it ended.
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The news station went on the air immediately to report the breaking news.
The news station went on the air immediately to report the breaking news.
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I can't believe our school podcast is finally on the air and streaming online.
I can't believe our school podcast is finally on the air and streaming online.
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The red light outside the studio indicates that we are currently on the air.
The red light outside the studio indicates that we are currently on the air.
Common Mistakes
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✗ The show is in the air right now.
✓ The show is on the air right now.
'In the air' means something is physically floating or a feeling is circulating. 'On the air' is the correct idiom for broadcasting.
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✗ The radio station went to the air.
✓ The radio station went on the air.
The correct preposition is 'on,' indicating the state of active broadcasting.
Related Expressions
Practice
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The microphone is live, which means we are now ___.
💡 actively broadcasting
Show answer
on the air
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How long has this television drama been ___?
💡 running/broadcasting
Show answer
on the air