41TH ANNUAL CONFERENCE, Cancun, Mexico, 15-19 April 2002WP No. 166Language Training for ATCOs |
Introduction
This Working Paper is a result of a work item proposed by Uruguay at Conference 2001 to deal with the problems of securing on-going proficiency training in the English language from their employer.
This paper will review current IFATCA policy and examine ICAO discussion papers on language proficiency. The objective of this paper is to create new IFATCA policy specific to language proficiency that can be used by all Member Associations and, in particular, those where English is not the native language.
Discussion
ICAO recognizes English as the international language of aviation. Proficiency in the common language by pilots and ATCOs is essential for quick concise communication and to avoid misunderstanding. Both safety and efficiency of the ATC system may be compromised if English language skills are not adequate.
While it is difficult to determine the number of incidents caused world wide by a lack of language proficiency on the part of the ATCO or the pilot, the following resolution was passed during the ICAO Assembly 32nd Session, Montreal, 22 September to 2 October 1998:
Resolution A32-16: Proficiency in the English language for radiotelephony communications.
“Whereas recent major accident investigations have indicated lack of proficiency and comprehension of the English language by flight crews and air traffic controllers alike as a contributing factor; and
Whereas to prevent such accidents, it is essential that ICAO devise ways and means to see that all the Contracting States take steps to ensure that air traffic control personnel and flight crews involved in flight operations in airspace where the use of the English language is required, are proficient in conducting and comprehending radiotelephony communications in the English language;
The Assembly:
Urges the Council to direct the Air Navigation Commission to consider this matter with a high level of priority, and complete the task of strengthening the relevant provisions of Annex 1 and Annex 10 with a view to obligating Contracting States to take steps to ensure that air traffic control personnel and flight crews involved in flight operations in airspace where the use of the English language is required, are proficient in conducting and comprehending radiotelephony communications in the English language.”
A Working Paper presented to ICAO PRICESG (Proficiency Requirements in Common English Study Group), May 2001, makes the following statement:
“Recent analyses of aviation incidents and accidents throughout the world have increasingly drawn attention to the contributing role of imperfect pilot-controller communications. Within this overall category… the inability of some controllers and pilots to communicate in English with clarity and ease in non-routine situations (ie beyond the limits of standard phraseology) has been widely noted. The obvious conclusion to be drawn from this observation is that deficiencies in common language skills need to be overcome…”
Language is no different than any other required skill or knowledge. If there is a requirement for initial training to a defined standard, then there is a requirement for refresher training to maintain that standard. IFATCA policy on refresher training (page 4 3 5 1) is as follows:
“5.2.1 As a means of maintaining a world-wi de air traffic control service of the highest standards, controllers should participate in a refresher course (training and simulation designed to ensure a maintenance of knowledge and abilities with respect to all standards, procedures, equipment and technique currently in use) every year while actively engaged in control duties.
5.2.4 As well as programmed refresher courses, adequate courses of instruction should be provided prior to the introduction into the ATC system of new or modified equipment and changes to standards or procedures which may require additional skills or changes in operating techniques.”
Although this policy is wide enough in scope to cover language refresher training, it is apparent from discussions with member associations that more specific policy is required.
Conclusion
Member Associations where English is not the native language have noted difficulty in obtaining adequate English language training from their employers after initial qualification.
ICAO believes that proficiency in the English language is important to aviation safety and has formed a study group to consider strengthening relevant provisions in Annex 1 and 10.
IFATCA has policy to deal with refresher training but it does not specifically mention language skills.
Recommendation
IFATCA Manual page 4351 be amended to add:
5.2.8 It is recommended that for ATCO’s for whom English is not the native language, English language training be part of refresher training.
IFATCA continues to monitor ICAO activities in this field and contribute through the PRICE Study Group.
References
Minutes, ICAO Assembly 32nd Session, Montreal, 22 September to 2 October 1998.
Development of Standard, Working Paper presented to ICAO PRICESG, Second Meeting, Luxembourg, 15 to 18 may 2001, Dr. Jeremy Mell.
The Aviation Safety Network, https://aviation-safety.net.
IFATCA Manual page 4351.
Last Update: September 29, 2020