How to Train Your Aviation English Listening with YouTube & Live ATC

Clear communication saves lives in aviation. But for non-native English speakers, understanding fast-paced ATC instructions or pilot dialogue can be challenging. Fortunately, there’s a free and effective way to improve: YouTube and live ATC streams. In this post, we’ll show you how to build your listening skills using real-world aviation audio.

🎧 Why Listening Practice Is Critical for ICAO English Tests

Whether you're preparing for ICAO Level 4, 5, or 6, the Language Proficiency Test evaluates:

• Comprehension of rapid, accented English

• Understanding of standard ICAO phraseology

• Accurate readbacks of clearances and frequencies

Passive classroom listening isn’t enough. You need real-world exposure. That’s where online ATC audio comes in.

📺 Best YouTube Channels for Aviation English Listening

These channels simulate real radio traffic and provide context:

• VASAviation – ATC audio overlaid with radar visuals and subtitles

• Aviation International News – Clear pilot interviews and cockpit recordings

• Mentour Pilot – Non-native speaker insights and real radio examples

• Captain Joe – Explains radio terminology and cockpit interactions

▶️ Tip: Watch videos with subtitles ON, then rewatch with subtitles OFF. Repeat key parts aloud to practice shadowing.

📡 Where to Listen to Live ATC Audio

LiveATC.net is the No. 1 resource. It provides:

• Real-time tower, approach, and ground communication

• Access to major international airports

• Archive feature to replay conversations

🎯 Start with:

• Low-traffic airports like KISP (Long Island) or EGJB (Guernsey)

• Then progress to busier hubs like JFK, LAX, or Heathrow

  
  

📝 How to Actively Train Your Listening

1. Set daily 15-minute sessions

2. Choose one ATC conversation and transcribe it

3. Identify all ICAO phraseology (e.g. “cleared for takeoff,” “hold short”)

4. Pause after each call and repeat it aloud

5. Compare with written transcripts if available

✅ This helps develop pronunciation, rhythm, and mental decoding speed—skills required for ICAO Level 5+.

🛫 Listening for Real Exams (ICAO LPT & EASA)

If you're taking the Language Proficiency Test (LPT) with Level6 Aviation, you’ll face:

• Real or simulated ATC recordings

• Spoken instructions requiring correct readbacks

• Accents from international controllers and pilots

⚠️ Pro Tip: Train with multiple accents (American, British, Indian, etc.) using videos from international airports.

💬 Final Thoughts

Consistent exposure to authentic aviation audio can transform your listening skills. Platforms like YouTube and LiveATC.net are not only free—they're indispensable.If you’re preparing for your ICAO English test, make real radio traffic a daily habit.

✈️ Want to take it further? Try our Free ICAO Sample Test or book a Practice Test with an Examiner at Level6 Aviation.