ICAO / EASA
English Language Proficiency Validity

The validity of your ICAO / EASA English qualification is a reflection of your current language skills, which are measured using specific ICAO English Levels on a rating scale. To unify language proficiency requirements, both ICAO and EASA have established a harmonized system of Levels that determine the validity of your certification.

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By undergoing the language proficiency exam in Level6 Aviation, you will receive language certificate issued in accordance with both - ICAO English and EASA English regulatory standards. It's validity is as follows:

English LEVEL 4: 4 YEARS EASA / 3 YEARS ICAO
English LEVEL 5: 6 YEARS both ICAO and EASA
English LEVEL 6 : VALID PERMANENTLY

ICAO ENGLISH LEVEL EXPLAINED

ICAO English level 4 is the minimum for operational use. That why it is so-called Operational level. English Level 4 is absolute minimum.

⚠️ ICAO English Level 4 in General ⚠️

ICAO English Level 4, often referred to as the Operational level of Aviation English, represents the minimum proficiency required for operational use. While this level is deemed sufficient from a regulatory standpoint to function as a pilot, certain airlines may enforce higher minimum standards. Therefore, achieving ICAO English Level 4 may not always meet the specific requirements of individual operators. Let's delve deeper into the implications and significance of ICAO English Level 4.

ICAO English Level 4 ✅ Pronunciation

Perfect pronunciation isn't the expectation for ICAO English Level 4. Language examiners can quickly identify English isn't your first language or mother tongue. A strong local accent is often the most noticeable marker of ICAO English Level 4 Pronunciation. This accent is influenced by your native language. For instance, German speakers have a unique pronunciation of "th". A classic example of ICAO English Level 4 Pronunciation is the word "think" pronounced as "sink". Nevertheless, the message's content remains easily understandable within context.

ICAO English Level 4 ✅ Sentence structure

At ICAO English Level 4, your sentence structure effectively communicates your intended message. You're capable of expressing time through various tenses, differentiating between past and present, using plurals, and applying various prepositions accurately. Although the syntax may not be flawless, an ICAO English Level 4 holder can distinguish between "a" and "an". In more complex conversations, you might generally rely on others or steer clear of constructing overly complex sentences.

ICAO English Level 4 ✅ Vocabulary

As an ICAO English Level 4 holder, your vocabulary naturally expands with your flying experience. It's essential that your vocabulary aligns with your level of experience and enables effective communication with other pilots and ATCs. When discussing diverse topics, you're able to express your thoughts in your own words, describing or paraphrasing the key aspects of various subjects.

ICAO English Level 4 ✅ Message comprehension

Achieving ICAO English Level 4 involves more than just mastering aviation phraseology; it also requires the ability to use and understand simple language beyond standard aviation phrases. You should be able to grasp different situations. While immediate comprehension may not always occur, repetition should help you understand the message's content or context. An ICAO English Level 4 holder is comfortable with using the phrase "say again" when necessary.

ICAO English Level 4 ✅ Interaction

An ICAO English Level 4 holder isn't hesitant to speak up. When something is unclear, you don't stay silent; instead, you seek clarification or utilize the essential aviators' phrase "say again".

ICAO English Level 4 ✅ Spoken fluency

An ICAO English Level 4 holder can find the right words to describe a situation or answer a question with relative ease. Although it may occasionally take a bit longer, it doesn't indicate significant issues with fluency.

ICAO English level 5 is an Extended level. Extended Level,' ICAO English Level 5 is commonly mandated by most airlines as the minimum proficiency level for aviation English.

⚠️ ICAO English Level 5 in General ⚠️

ICAO Level 5, also known as the 'Advanced Level,' bridges the gap between the basic Operational Level and the Expert Level. Many examinees, whose first language is not English, typically can't attain ICAO English Level 6 immediately. However, if their language skills exceed Level 4, they frequently achieve Level 5.

ICAO English Level 5 ✅ Pronunciation

As an ICAO English Level 5 speaker, your pronunciation is generally correct and spontaneous. While native English speakers may identify that English isn't your first language, your English proficiency remains solid with very few major errors. In essence, your English is outstanding, with your accent being the only notable difference.

ICAO English Level 5 ✅ Sentence structure

As an ICAO English Level 5 speaker, you make an effort to construct complex sentence structures, even if not always successful. Your understanding of grammar is exemplary, and you apply it confidently and effortlessly.

ICAO English Level 5 ✅ Spoken fluency

As an ICAO English Level 5 speaker, your speech is fluent and precise. You promptly find the right answers to questions without long pauses for thought. Your speech is notably fluid and direct, reflecting the exceptional fluency characteristic of ICAO English Level 5.

ICAO English Level 5 ✅ Vocabulary

An ICAO English Level 5 speaker demonstrates an excellent command of vocabulary, using appropriate words for different situations. Your vocabulary, relative to your flying experience, is impressive. You may even sprinkle in idioms or slang expressions characteristic of English speakers. However, continuous use of idiomatic language could still be challenging. As a holder of ICAO English Level 5, you might find discussing unfamiliar topics, especially non-aviation ones, a bit difficult.

ICAO English Level 5 ✅ Message comprehension

As an ICAO English Level 5 holder, you're adept at understanding messages, particularly in familiar contexts. But your comprehension abilities extend beyond the familiar. You're generally able to understand new situations without difficulty. This includes English radio broadcasts and aviation English radio communication, which you can comprehend without hesitation.

ICAO English Level 5 ✅ Interaction

As an ICAO English Level 5 holder, you're not limited to using the "say again" phrase when misunderstandings occur. You confidently ask for clarifications and strive to ensure your messages are clear and comprehensible. You're able to initiate and sustain meaningful dialogues with ease.

Achieving ICAO English Level 6 means you've reached the pinnacle of language proficiency in aviation. To attain this Expert level, idiomatic speech becomes key. It's not just about language skills, but mastering the art of natural and nuanced communication.

⚠️ ICAO English Level 6 in General ⚠️

ICAO Level 6, known as the 'Expert' level, is the apex of the ICAO language proficiency ladder. Often, holders of this level are misconstrued as native English speakers. However, even native speakers, due to non-standard pronunciation, might not always reach this coveted Level 6.

Attaining ICAO English Level 6 isn't just about flight hours; it's about showcasing an advanced vocabulary range, superior grammar skills, and excellent pronunciation. It's a testament to your mastery of the English language in the aviation context.

ICAO English Level 6 ✅ Pronunciation

As a holder of ICAO Level 6, your pronunciation is near perfect. Minor differences might exist between your pronunciation and that of a native speaker, but these nuances cause no misunderstanding whatsoever.

ICAO English Level 6 ✅ Sentence structure

Your grasp on the most intricate grammar nuances is impeccable as an ICAO Level 6 holder. Even the most complicated sentences are rendered with precision and are nearly or entirely error-free, demonstrating frequent usage.

ICAO English Level 6 ✅ Vocabulary

As a holder of ICAO Level 6, you demonstrate the ability to converse on virtually any topic, regardless of your familiarity with it. Your everyday speech is laced with idioms and idiomatic expressions. Beyond mere word knowledge, you are adept at using them in the appropriate contexts.

ICAO English Level 6 ✅ Message comprehension

As a Level 6 holder, your comprehension is near perfect, extending far beyond contextual guessing. If you can follow English song lyrics, cartoons, and non-standard expressions with ease, you're well-positioned for Level 6 proficiency in ICAO English.

ICAO English Level 6 ✅ Interaction

As an ICAO Level 6 holder, your interaction is effortless and natural across all scenarios, with regular use of both verbal and non-verbal expressions.

ICAO English Level 6 ✅ Spoken fluency

As an ICAO Level 6 holder, your spoken fluency is remarkably natural and swift. You exhibit a high level of proficiency in understanding and using idiomatic speech.

Whenever you engage in English conversation, your speech is intricate and fluent. You skillfully employ prosodic features such as changes in intonation, tone, stress, and rhythm, which contribute to effective and nuanced communication.

ICAO / EASA English Assessment

The ICAO English assessment is conducted by a qualified language proficiency examiner. At Level6Aviation, we offer the ICAO English exam to cater to the needs of aviation specialists. In alignment with ICAO requirements, the assessment is divided into several sections, providing a comprehensive evaluation of language proficiency. The entire assessment process typically takes between 20 to 30 minutes.

Initial Briefing
Visual analysis
Communication with ATC (Simulation)
Audio analysis (listening ATC)
Personal Interview with Candidate

If you wish to gauge your proficiency level in a non-official capacity, you have the option to take a practice exam for €59. This practice exam allows you to assess your language skills and readiness for the official ICAO English assessment:

PRACTICE TEST INFO

ICAO English vs EASA English
Understanding the Difference

"ICAO English" refers to the language proficiency qualification required for pilots and flight crew members involved in international aviation communication since March 5, 2008, in accordance with ICAO regulations. Additionally, EASA license holders are also obligated to undergo language proficiency assessments based on similar requirements outlined in Commission Regulation No 1178/2011 Part FCL - FCL.055.

Due to ICAO's establishment of language proficiency standards three years prior to EASA, pilots commonly refer to both regulatory frameworks - EASA FCL.055 and ICAO Doc 9835 - as "ICAO English." This shared terminology has become prevalent in the industry.

Understanding the distinctions between ICAO English and EASA English is essential for pilots and flight crew members navigating language proficiency requirements in the aviation sector.

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ICAO / EASA English Language Proficiency Validity