Overview

Air-ground radiotelephony uses the ground station's language or English. Whether you are talking to the tower or to ATC over the Atlantic Ocean, you must be able to express yourself clearly and correctly in aviation English. Why is aviation English so important? Miscommunication in aviation can cost lives.

In detail (1)

ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization) has therefore set strict language requirements. Aeroplane and helicopter pilots must demonstrate proficiency in the language used for radiotelephony. ICAO language proficiency levels Level Description Validity Level 4 (Operational) Minimum required for radiotelephony 3 years (ICAO), 4 years (EASA) Level 5 (Extended) Advanced: expected by most airlines 6 years Level 6 (Expert) Highest level on the ICAO scale No periodic re-evaluation Radiotelephony and ATC communication Radiotelephony uses standardised phraseology: "Cleared for takeoff", "Descend flight level 280", "Roger, wilco". You must know this phraseology and apply it correctly, even under pressure.

In detail (2)

Listen to LiveATC.net to train your ear. Tips to improve your aviation English LiveATC.net: Listen to real ATC communication for 15 minutes every day. Virtual ATC networks: Practise online with virtual air traffic control. Anki flashcards: Make cards for technical vocabulary.

In detail (3)

English-language media: Listen to aviation podcasts and read SKYbrary and pilot magazines in English.