The role of standard phraseology in radiotelephony communication

In this webinar we discussed the role of standard phraseology in radiotelephony communication. We considered issues such as how phraseology facilitates communication, the challenges posed by regional variations, and where phraseology fits into the ICAO LPRs including its place in testing and language training programmes.

Panel:

SMEs – Jacqueline Pulido (pilot: Mexico), Thiago Silva (ATC: Brazil), Paul Fernandez (pilot: UK), David Johnson (ATC: UK)

ELEs – Michael Kay (Thailand), Neil Bullock (Switzerland), Jennifer Drayton (New Zealand), Valerie Wilson (France)

Aviation English and Communications Training for a Post Covid-19 Era

The global Covid-19 pandemic has required rapid adaptations to the delivery of Aviation English training.

Since the start of 2020, we have come to embrace Virtual Instructor Led Training (VILT) and seen how curriculum and content needs to be modified for online delivery. We have seen how e-Learning activities delivered via Learning Management Systems (LMS) with support from instructors can provide an effective means to support the English Language Proficiency (ELP) development of aviation professionals. And, as we have become increasingly aware that effective pilot-ATCO communication depends on more than just language proficiency, what does training need to address in the future?

This series of four virtual workshops led by expert guest facilitators explored these issues, and provided an opportunity to consider training needs and delivery methods for a post Covid-19 era.

Workshop 1
Designing productive exchanges between learners and instructors in online asynchronous settings

Workshop 2
Testing and training flight deck communications – an operational perspective

Workshop 3
Developing virtual instructor-led Aviation English lessons using authentic radiotelephony texts

Workshop 4
A mutual exchange: gaining the operational knowledge needed to be an English Language Expert, and, demystifying the voice in the headset

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.

GO   TDG Video Intro & Objectives

GO   ICAO LPR Test Design Guidelines

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.

GO   TDG Workshops 2019

GO   TDG Handbook & Presentations

The ICAEA Webinar Series began in 2020 in response to the emergence of Covid-19.

As many training and testing activities needed to transition quickly from face-to-face to online delivery, the initial objective was to offer opportunities for the sharing of ideas and experience. Interactive discussions sessions were led by ICAEA Board and Research Group Members, and training and assessment professionals.

The series has continued to explore other topics including corpus linguistics and the various factors influencing pilot-controller communications. Panel members have included pilots, air traffic controllers and experts in linguistics.

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:

1. How effective is radio communication in different regions of the world?
2. Are there regions which would benefit from improving communication over the radio?
3. What are the main factors that cause ineffective radio communication?
4. 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?

TAKE THE SURVEY