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.
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:
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English LEVEL 4: 4 YEARS EASA / 3 YEARS ICAO
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English LEVEL 5: 6 YEARS both ICAO and EASA
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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, the Operational Level, is the essential standard for effective communication in international aviation. It ensures that pilots, air traffic controllers, and aviation personnel can handle routine and emergency situations with clear, functional English. While Level 4 provides the foundation for safe operations, speakers may still carry an accent or occasionally seek clarification. This level equips professionals with the necessary skills to communicate reliably, ensuring that essential information is shared accurately and efficiently in diverse aviation environments.
Pronunciation:
Pronunciation doesn’t need to be flawless, and a native accent isn’t required. Examiners understand that English may not be your first language, so an accent influenced by your native tongue is expected. Although certain sounds might differ or be unique, the emphasis is on clear, understandable speech. As long as your accent does not interfere with comprehension, your pronunciation is considered effective and suited for safe communication in aviation.
Structure:
With ICAO English Level 4, your ability to construct sentences is solid, allowing you to communicate ideas clearly. You’re able to use basic grammar forms, correctly applying tenses, plurals, and prepositions to maintain clarity. Although sentence structure may be simple and not always perfect, it serves its purpose in helping you convey essential information effectively. This functional grasp of structure ensures that your communication remains clear and reliable, even in busy or high-stress environments.
Vocabulary:
At ICAO English Level 4, your vocabulary is practical and functional, allowing you to discuss routine aviation topics effectively. You have a solid grasp of essential terms and can adapt language to cover a range of situations. While your vocabulary may be somewhat limited, you can convey key information accurately. This foundation supports smooth communication with colleagues and air traffic controllers, ensuring you can relay important details with confidence.
Comprehension:
At this level, comprehension extends beyond standard phrases to understanding general language. You’re able to grasp the meaning of most messages, even if a quick clarification is needed occasionally. ICAO English Level 4 speakers can pick up essential information, interpret various situations, and request repetition or clarification when necessary. This ability to ensure understanding helps maintain clarity and efficiency in critical communications.
Interaction:
Speakers can engage in straightforward conversations, asking questions and responding appropriately in most situations. You can maintain a two-way dialogue, voice concerns, and seek clarification when something is unclear. This level of interaction skills allows you to participate actively in exchanges, helping you to resolve issues and ensure mutual understanding in routine and unexpected situations alike.
Spoken fluency:
At ICAO English Level 4, you can communicate smoothly, though there may be occasional pauses as you search for words. These brief hesitations don’t significantly disrupt the flow of conversation, allowing you to express yourself clearly and effectively. Your speech is steady and functional, maintaining a pace that ensures your message is understood without major interruptions. This level of fluency is suited to handle both everyday and urgent aviation exchanges.
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.
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Initial Briefing
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Visual analysis
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Communication with ATC (Simulation)
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Audio analysis (listening ATC)
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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:
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.