INTERNATIONAL CIVIL AVIATION ENGLISH ASSOCIATION
ENGLISH – THE LANGUAGE OF THE SKIES
ENGLISH – THE LANGUAGE OF THE SKIES
ENGLISH – THE LANGUAGE OF THE SKIES
GLOBAL SURVEY
The effectiveness of ATC-pilot radio communication around the world
ICAEA is conducting an ongoing global survey of international pilots and air traffic controllers, to identify how effective radio communication is in different countries. The Association aims to use the results to report on emerging issues and possible ways to address them. The findings will also help to show how effectively the ICAO Language Proficiency Requirements (LPRs) have been implemented in different countries.
The survey aims to answer these questions:
- How effective is radio communication in different regions of the world?
- Are there regions which would benefit from improving communication over the radio?
- What are the main factors that cause ineffective radio communication?
- How does ineffective radio communication affect operations?
The survey contains 10-12 questions and takes about 5-10 minutes to complete.
Participation is anonymous.
GLOBAL SURVEY
The effectiveness of ATC-pilot radio communication around the world
ICAEA is conducting an ongoing global survey of international pilots and air traffic controllers, to identify how effective radio communication is in different countries. The Association aims to use the results to report on emerging issues and possible ways to address them. The findings will also help to show how effectively the ICAO Language Proficiency Requirements (LPRs) have been implemented in different countries.
The survey aims to answer these questions:
- How effective is radio communication in different regions of the world?
- Are there regions which would benefit from improving radio communication?
- What are the main factors that cause ineffective radio communication?
- How does ineffective radio communication affect operations?
The survey contains 10-12 questions and takes about 5-10 minutes to complete.
Participation is anonymous.
Are you a pilot or air traffic controller? PARTICIPATE IN THE SURVEY
GLOBAL SURVEY
The effectiveness of ATC-pilot radio communication around the world
ICAEA is conducting an ongoing global survey of international pilots and air traffic controllers, to identify how effective radio communication is in different countries. The Association aims to use the results to report on emerging issues and possible ways to address them. The findings will also help to show how effectively the ICAO Language Proficiency Requirements (LPRs) have been implemented in different countries.
The survey contains 10-12 questions and takes about 5 minutes to complete. Participation is anonymous.
The survey aims to answer these questions:
- How effective is radio communication in different regions of the world?
- Are there regions which would benefit from improving communication over the radio?
- What are the main factors that cause ineffective radio communication?
- How does ineffective radio communication affect operations?
Are you a pilot or air traffic controller? PARTICIPATE IN THE SURVEY
WEBINAR 8
The effectiveness of ATC-pilot radio communication around the world
Pilot and ATCO discussion panel
| 13.00 – 14.30 UTC Monday 12 July, 2021 |
SEE VIDEO & PRESENTATION |
Moderators:
Michael Kay & Neil Bullock (ICAEA), Inga Tephnadze (GE)
Panel:
ATCOs – Rut Charaslertrangsi (TH), David Johnson (UK), Laure Pichon (FR), Thiago Silva (BR)
Pilots – Chris Coconnier (DE), Shosuke Koyama (JP), Jacqueline Pulido (MX), Kinya Sugimoto (JP)
In this webinar we discussed some results from ICAEA’s ongoing global survey on pilots’ and ATCOs’ perceptions of the effectiveness of radio communication around the world. The survey seeks to answer these questions:
- How effective is radio communication in different regions of the world?
- Are there regions which would benefit from improving communication over the radio?
- What are the main factors that cause ineffective radio communication?
- How does ineffective radio communication affect operations?
Our panel of pilots and ATCOs shared their views and experiences in aeronautical communication, the survey findings and the implications for work practices and training.
WEBINAR 8
The effectiveness of ATC-pilot radio communication around the world
Pilot and ATCO discussion panel
| 13.00 – 14.30 UTC Monday 12 July, 2021 |
SEE VIDEO & PRESENTATION |
Moderators:
Michael Kay & Neil Bullock (ICAEA), Inga Tephnadze (GE)
Panel:
ATCOs
Rut Charaslertrangsi (TH), David Johnson (UK), Laure Pichon (FR), Thiago Silva (BR)
Pilots
Chris Coconnier (DE), Shosuke Koyama (JP), Jacqueline Pulido (MX), Kinya Sugimoto (JP)
In this webinar we discussed some results from ICAEA’s ongoing global survey on pilots’ and ATCOs’ perceptions of the effectiveness of radio communication around the world. The survey seeks to answer these questions:
- How effective is radio communication in different regions of the world?
- Are there regions which would benefit from improving radio communication?
- What are the main factors that cause ineffective radio communication?
- How does ineffective radio communication affect operations?
Our panel of pilots and ATCOs shared their views and experiences in aeronautical communication, the survey findings and the implications for work practices and training.
WEBINAR 8
The effectiveness of ATC-pilot radio communication around the world
Pilot and ATCO discussion panel
| 13.00 – 14.30 UTC Monday 12 July, 2021 |
VIDEO & PRESENTATION |
Moderators:
Michael Kay & Neil Bullock (ICAEA), Inga Tephnadze (GE)
| Panel: | |
| ATCOs | Pilots |
| Rut Charaslertrangsi (TH) | Chris Coconnier (DE) |
| David Johnson (UK) | Shosuke Koyama (JP) |
| Laure Pichon (FR) | Jacqueline Pulido (MX) |
| Thiago Silva (BR) | Kinya Sugimoto (JP) |
In this webinar we discussed some results from ICAEA’s ongoing global survey on pilots’ and ATCOs’ perceptions of the effectiveness of radio communication around the world. The survey seeks to answer these questions:
- How effective is radio communication in different regions of the world?
- Are there regions which would benefit from improving communication over the radio?
- What are the main factors that cause ineffective radio communication?
- How does ineffective radio communication affect operations?
Our panel of pilots and ATCOs shared their views and experiences in aeronautical communication, the survey findings and the implications for work practices and training.
JOIN MAILING LIST to receive notifications of future ICAEA events
ICAO LPR TEST DESIGN GUIDELINES
New criteria for LPR Test Design
Enhancing the validity and effectiveness of LPR tests
Test Design Guidelines
ICAEA’s Test Design Guidelines establish eight criteria for the design and recognition of valid and effective ICAO LPR tests. The TDGs explain the critical features that are necessary for the alignment of a test with the objectives of the LPRs and best practice in the specific-purpose language assessment of pilots and ATCOs.
The TDGs were produced in response to issues that have emerged since the introduction of the LPRs:
- to guide interpretation and application of ICAO Document 9835 (2010),
- to provide a common framework to analyse, evaluate and select LPR tests,
- thereby promote more uniform implementation of the ICAO LPR standards and foster greater confidence in testing systems, and,
- to recognise the effects that testing practice can have on test takers and training.
Workshops: Using the Test Design Guidelines
In 2019, ICAEA offered 4 practical workshops in Europe, Asia-Pacific and South America to introduce the TDGs to CAA LPR Focal Points, Airlines & ANSPs, Test Service Providers and other stakeholders.
| Supported regionally by ICAO, over 200 participants attended these events which provided opportunities for hands-on familiarisation and discussion of the Guidelines, and the sharing of experience. |  |
| Further regional workshops are anticipated, with additional focus on the development of tasks, content and the appropriate use of different item types. |
ICAO LPR TEST DESIGN GUIDELINES
New criteria for LPR Test Design
Enhancing the validity and effectiveness of LPR tests
Test Design Guidelines
ICAEA’s Test Design Guidelines establish eight criteria for the design and recognition of valid and effective ICAO LPR tests. The TDGs explain the critical features that are necessary for the alignment of a test with the objectives of the LPRs and best practice in the specific-purpose language assessment of pilots and ATCOs. The TDGs were produced in response to issues that have emerged since the introduction of the LPRs:
- to guide interpretation and application of ICAO Document 9835 (2010),
- to provide a common framework to analyse, evaluate and select LPR tests,
- thereby promote more uniform implementation of the ICAO LPR standards and foster greater confidence in testing systems, and,
- to recognise the effects that testing practice can have on test takers and training.
Workshops: Using the Guidelines
In 2019, ICAEA offered 4 practical workshops in Europe, Asia-Pacific and South America to introduce the TDGs to CAA LPR Focal Points, Airlines & ANSPs, Test Service Providers and other stakeholders.
| Supported regionally by ICAO, over 200 participants attended these events which provided opportunities for hands-on familiarisation and discussion of the Guidelines, and the sharing of experience. | |
ICAO LPR TEST DESIGN GUIDELINESEIGHT DESIGN CRITERIA & TEST EVALUATION TOOL supporting CAAs, airlines & ANSPs with the selection, approval and auditing of LPR tests |
 |
CONFERENCE: TOKYO 2019
Exploring the Aviation English training needs of:
• Ab-initio Pilots and Air Traffic Controllers, and,
• Aircraft Maintenance Personnel.
| WHEN: | 8 – 10 May, 2019 |
| WHERE: | Hotel The Manhattan Chiba, Tokyo – Japan |
As industry growth and the number of non-native English speaking personnel entering the industry accelerates particularly in the Asia-Pacific region, this conference explored the language proficiency and communications training needs of two important groups of personnel:
- ab-initio pilots and ATCOs as they prepare for and undergo training to enter the industry, and,
- aircraft maintenance personnel engaged in all aspects of MRO operations.
ICAEA’s 2019 Conference comprised Presentations, Q&A Panels, practical Workshops, and a social programme that included a dinner banquet and traditional Japanese Tea Ceremony. With over 100 participants from more than 35 countries, this was ICAEA’s first event in Asia for 7 years. Considering the enthusiasm for the conference and the lively exchange of experiences during sessions, a follow-up event is planned in Asia in the near future.
ICAEA would like to sincerely thank All Nippon Airways (ANA) for its generous support of the conference, and, all the presenters, workshop leaders and delegates for making this one of our most dynamic and engaging recent events.
CONFERENCE: TOKYO 2019
Exploring the Aviation English training needs of:
• Ab-initio Pilots and Air Traffic Controllers, and,
• Aircraft Maintenance Personnel.
| WHEN: | 8 – 10 May, 2019 |
| WHERE: | Hotel The Manhattan Chiba, Tokyo – Japan |
As industry growth and the number of non-native English speaking personnel entering the industry accelerates particularly in the Asia-Pacific region, this conference explored the language proficiency and communications training needs of two important groups of personnel:
- ab-initio pilots and ATCOs as they prepare for and undergo training to enter the industry, and,
- aircraft maintenance personnel engaged in all aspects of MRO operations.
ICAEA’s 2019 Conference comprised Presentations, Q&A Panels, practical Workshops, and a social programme that included a dinner banquet and traditional Japanese Tea Ceremony.
With over 100 participants from more than 35 countries, this was ICAEA’s first event in Asia for 7 years. Considering the enthusiasm for the conference and the lively exchange of experience and views during sessions, a follow-up event is planned in Asia in the near future.
ICAEA would like to sincerely thank All Nippon Airways (ANA) for its generous support of the conference, and, all the presenters, workshop leaders and delegates for making this one of our most dynamic and engaging recent events.
CONFERENCE: TOKYO 2019
Exploring the Aviation English training needs of:
• Ab-initio Pilots and Air Traffic Controllers, and,
• Aircraft Maintenance Personnel.
| WHEN: | 8 – 10 May, 2019 |
| WHERE: | Hotel The Manhattan Chiba, Tokyo – Japan |
As industry growth and the number of non-native English speaking personnel entering the industry accelerates particularly in the Asia-Pacific region, this conference explored the language proficiency and communications training needs of two important groups of personnel:
- ab-initio pilots and ATCOs as they prepare for and undergo training to enter the industry, and,
- aircraft maintenance personnel engaged in all aspects of MRO operations.
ICAEA’s 2019 Conference comprised Presentations, Q&A Panels, practical Workshops, and a social programme that included a dinner banquet and traditional Japanese Tea Ceremony.
With over 100 participants from more than 35 countries, this was ICAEA’s first event in Asia for 7 years. Considering the enthusiasm for the conference and the lively exchange of experience and views during sessions, a follow-up event is planned in Asia in the near future.
ICAEA would like to sincerely thank All Nippon Airways (ANA) for its generous support of the conference, and, all the presenters, workshop leaders and delegates for making this one of our most dynamic and engaging recent events.
SUPPORTING THE USE OF ENGLISH FOR AVIATION SAFETY
Awareness
To raise awareness of the role of English in aviation safety, service quality and industry efficiency.
Best Practice
To promote best practices in ELP training and testing in all sectors of the aviation industry.
Cooperation
To provide a non-commercial platform for the sharing of expertise, experience and news.
Events
Organise an annual program of conferences, practical workshops, and interactive webinars.
Representation
Attend industry events to provide expertise on ELP standards and best practices.
Projects
Support and lead projects to harmonise global standards in ELP training and testing.
Non-Profit
Established in Europe in 1991 as a worldwide, non-partisan, non-profit association for the industry.
Board
Managed and developed by a volunteer Board of industry and language representatives.
Membership
An active community of operations and ELP members from 75+ countries worldwide.
INTERNATIONAL CIVIL AVIATION ENGLISH ASSOCIATION
ENGLISH
THE LANGUAGE OF THE SKIES
FEATURED
GLOBAL SURVEY
The effectiveness of ATC-pilot radio communication around the world
ICAEA is conducting an ongoing global survey of international pilots and air traffic controllers, to identify how effective radio communication is in different countries. The Association aims to use the results to report on emerging issues and possible ways to address them. The findings will also help to show how effectively the ICAO Language Proficiency Requirements (LPRs) have been implemented in different countries.
The survey aims to answer these questions:
- How effective is radio communication in different regions of the world?
- Are there regions which would benefit from improving communication over the radio?
- What are the main factors that cause ineffective radio communication?
- How does ineffective radio communication affect operations?
The survey contains 10-12 questions and takes about 5-10 minutes to complete.
Participation is anonymous.
Are you a pilot or air traffic controller?
WEBINAR 8
The effectiveness of ATC-pilot radio communication around the world
Pilot and ATCO discussion panel
| 13.00 – 14.30 UTC Monday 12 July, 2021 |
| SEE VIDEO & PRESENTATION |
Moderators:
Michael Kay & Neil Bullock (ICAEA), Inga Tephnadze (GE)
Panel:
ATCOs
Rut Charaslertrangsi (TH), David Johnson (UK), Laure Pichon (FR), Thiago Silva (BR)
Pilots
Christopher Coconnier (DE), Shosuke Koyama (JP), Jacqueline Pulido (MX), Kinya Sugimoto (JP)
In this webinar we discussed some results from ICAEA’s ongoing global survey on pilots’ and ATCOs’ perceptions of the effectiveness of radio communication around the world. The survey seeks to answer these questions:
- How effective is radio communication in different regions of the world?
- Are there regions which would benefit from improving communication over the radio?
- What are the main factors that cause ineffective radio communication?
- How does ineffective radio communication affect operations?
Our panel of pilots and ATCOs shared their views and experiences in aeronautical communication, the survey findings and the implications for work practices and training.
| ICAEA SURVEY The effectiveness of ATC-pilot communications around the world |
| JOIN ICAEA MAILING LIST TO RECEIVE FUTURE EVENT NOTIFICATIONS |
WEBINAR SERIES
1
Teaching Aviation English Online
Sharing Ideas and experience
3 & 10 June 2020
2
Re-routing Aviation English
Strategies for teaching online
30 June 2020
3
Re-routing Aviation English
Challenges & Solutions
4 August 2020
4
Experiences in virtual Aviation English teaching
Insights from Argentina
24 September 2020
5a & 5b
Using real aviation communications to create tasks for training (5a) and testing (5b)
27 October 2020
10 November 2020
6
Factors affecting real-world pilot and ATC communication -1-
Pilot and ATC Interview panel
11 January 2021
7
Factors affecting real-world pilot and ATC communication -2-
Pilot, ATC and Linguist Interview panel
8 April 2021
8
The effectiveness of ATC-pilot radio communication around the world
Pilot and ATCO discussion panel
1 July 2021
| SEE VIDEOS & PRESENTATIONS FROM ALL WEBINARS |
New criteria for
ICAO LPR Test Design
Enhancing the validity and
effectiveness of LPR tests
GUIDELINES
ICAEA’s Test Design Guidelines establish eight criteria for the design and recognition of valid and effective ICAO LPR tests. The TDGs explain the critical features that are necessary for the alignment of a test with the objectives of the LPRs and best practice in the specific-purpose language assessment of pilots and ATCOs.
The TDGs were produced in response to issues that have emerged since the introduction of the LPRs:
- to guide interpretation and application of ICAO Document 9835 (2010),
- to provide a common framework to analyse, evaluate and select LPR tests,
- thereby promote more uniform implementation of the ICAO LPR standards and foster greater confidence in testing systems, and,
- to recognise the effects that testing practice can have on test takers and training.
ICAO LPR TEST DESIGN GUIDELINESEIGHT DESIGN CRITERIA
supporting CAAs, airlines & ANSPs with the selection, approval and auditing of LPR tests |
WORKSHOPS
In 2019, ICAEA offered 4 practical workshops in Europe, Asia-Pacific and South America to introduce the TDGs to CAA LPR Focal Points, Airlines & ANSPs, Test Service Providers and other stakeholders.
Supported regionally by ICAO, over 200 participants attended these events which provided opportunities for hands-on familiarisation and discussion of the Guidelines, and the sharing of experience.
Exploring the Aviation English training needs of:
Ab-initio Pilots and ATCOs, and Aircraft Maintenance Personnel
8 – 10 May, 2019
Chiba, Tokyo – Japan
hosted by
As industry growth and the number of non-native English speaking personnel entering the industry accelerates particularly in the Asia-Pacific region, this conference explored the language proficiency and communications training needs of two important groups of personnel:
- ab-initio pilots and ATCOs as they prepare for and undergo training to enter the industry, and,
- aircraft maintenance personnel engaged in all aspects of MRO operations.
ICAEA’s 2019 Conference comprised Presentations, Q&A Panels, practical Workshops, and a social programme that included a dinner banquet and traditional Japanese Tea Ceremony. With over 100 participants from more than 35 countries, this was ICAEA’s first event in Asia for 7 years. Considering the enthusiasm for the conference and the lively exchange of experiences during sessions, a follow-up event is planned in Asia in the near future.
ICAEA would like to sincerely thank All Nippon Airways (ANA) for its generous support of the conference, and, all the presenters, workshop leaders and delegates for making this one of our most dynamic and engaging recent events.
Building on the ICAO LPRs: Communication as a Human Factor
New perspectives on
Aviation English training and testing
9-11 May, 2018
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
Daytona Beach, Florida – USA
This conference explored issues beyond the ICAO Language Proficiency Requirements (LPRs) including:
• incorporating communication strategies into best practices for training and testing,
• the effect of language and culture on communication as a human factor,
• considerations for future policy developments in language and communication.
hosted by
ICAEA’s 2018 Conference was hosted by Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University at its campus in Daytona Beach, Florida. This year’s event included Plenary Presentations, Q&A Panels, interactive Panel Presentations, practical Workshops, more informal Poster Sessions.
More than 120 people from 35+ countries attended the 2018 Conference, including representatives from airlines, FTOs, ANSPs, CAAs, universities, and training and testing providers.
ICAEA would like to sincerely thank ERAU for its generous support of the event – and all the presenters and attendees for sharing their expertise and experience as our field enters a new phase of development.
Subsequent to the draft document and invitation for comments in early 2017, the FAA has published Advisory Circular AC 60-28B. The document provides guidance on the FAA’s Aviation English Language Standards (AELS) that apply to personnel holding or training for an FAA certificate.
Advisory Circular AC 60-28B
“This Advisory Circular (AC) introduces the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Aviation English Language Standard (AELS) and provides guidance to applicants, airmen, training organizations, Designated Examiners (DE), and flight and ground instructors on how to determine that an applicant for an FAA certificate or a person holding an FAA certificate meets the FAA AELS. AELS will be evaluated before acceptance of a student pilot application or issuance of a student solo endorsement, recommendation or examination of an applicant for an FAA pilot certificate or additional aircraft rating, and whenever any individual is tested or checked as required by the Administrator under Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations (14 CFR).”
from the Management Summary of AC 60-28B – FAA English Language Standard for an FAA Certificate Issued Under 14 CFR Parts 61, 63, 65, and 107 – June 2017
READ the complete AC at FAA website
The ICAO LPRs 10 years on: Progress or Pain?
An exploration of what has and hasn’t worked since the introduction of the ICAO LPRs
24-25 April, 2017
Hotel Neptun – Dubrovnik, Croatia
ICAEA held a highly successful 2-day workshop in Dubrovnik, organised in collaboration with Croatia Control Ltd – Croatia’s ANSP. With delegates from over 35 countries, this was our most well-attended recent event.
More than a decade after the ICAO LPRs were announced in 2005, most international pilots and controllers have now been through at least two testing cycles. In this workshop, we reviewed how different approaches to LPR testing have affected:
- language training and the effectiveness of teaching and learning,
- regulators’, airlines’ and ANSPs’ perceptions of English language proficiency and its effect on safety,
- individuals’ attitudes towards the use of English in their jobs,
- the effect of the LPRs on air-ground communications.
Based on feedback from our Workshop in the Azores in 2016, this event included Presentations and interactive Workshops led by expert guest speakers, Q&A Panels for follow-up discussion, and networking and social opportunities.
Our thanks
ICAEA would like to express its sincere thanks to Croatia Control Ltd for their generosity in hosting the event, all the presenters and workshop leaders for opening up a range of thought-provoking topics, and of course, all the attendees for sharing their ideas, expertise and experience.
Aviation English Research Project – Data Analysis Findings and Best Practice Recommendations
“This independent report, commissioned by the UK CAA, investigates pilot / air traffic controller communication issues as evidenced by Mandatory Occurrence Reports (MOR), and proposes best practices to reduce miscommunication affected by substandard International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) language proficiency.
The key problems identified by this investigation are:
1. Readback-hearback errors (by both UK and non-UK pilots and controllers);
2. Call sign confusion (by both UK and non-UK pilots and controllers);
3. Language proficiency below ICAO minimum standard (non-UK pilots and controllers);
4. Situational awareness reduced due to multilingual radiotelephony (RT), multiple language used and heard on the radio;
5. Non-standard phraseology use (by both native and non-native English speakers);
6. Grounds to suspect cheating on aviation English exams;
7. Grounds to suspect that some non-native English speakers are not being tested, but instead are granted ICAO Level 4 certificates on ‘sweetheart’ deals (handshakes, via friends, etc.);
8. ICAO levels of language proficiency, especially Level 4, are not robust enough to ensure appropriately clear pilot / controller communication;
9. Poor MOR / language-related reporting culture and underreporting of language proficiency issues by UK pilots and controllers.”
from the Management Summary – Aviation English Research Project, UK CAA CAP1375 – March 2017
READ full report at UK CAA website
ICAEA Conference: Tokyo, Japan – 2019
ICAEA Conference: Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, USA – 2018
ABOUT ICAEA
Awareness
To raise awareness of the role of English in aviation safety, service quality and industry efficiency.
Best Practice
To promote best practices in ELP training and testing in all sectors of the aviation industry.
Cooperation
To provide a non-commercial platform for the sharing of expertise, experience and news.
Events
We organise an annual program of regional forums and practical, interactive workshops.
Representation
We attend industry conferences to provide input on ELP standards and recommended practices.
Projects
We support projects that harmonise accepted global standards in ELP training and testing.
Non-Profit
ICAEA was established in Europe 1991 as a worldwide, non-partisan, non-profit association.
Board
ICAEA is managed and overseen by a volunteer Board of industry and language experts.
Membership
ICAEA has 800+ registered Members (operations, training, linguistics) from 75+ countries.
ICAEA Workshop: Dubrovnik, Croatia – 2017
ICAEA Workshop: The Azores, Portugal – 2016