I would suggest it is advisable to learn what most common types look like.
If you arrive at a busy airfield where commercial traffic is operating and are number 7, but told you are number 2 to a Dash 8 (number 6), it helps. Especially if the others are a BN Trislander, ATR, Fokker 50, 146 & Saab 2000.
I have experienced a similar situation several times over the years, mainly at Jersey. Silhouette recognition should be enough, just like telling the difference between a Heinkel & a Blenheim in the war.
Sometimes the radio will be too busy to ask for further info, depends on the situation at the time.
A nice, small sized and above all, simple to read is the Observer book of Aircraft. Or a book by Ian Allan, usually good for aircraft enthusiasts.
FB
