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How do pilots communicate in other countries?
Answer: The international language of aviation is English. In most places, the pilots and air traffic controllers have demonstrated the ability to speak and understand English up to a level specified by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). I believe they would use English.
Do all air traffic controllers have to speak English?
For all pilots and air traffic controllers, it requires proficiency in aviation phraseology. Since March 2011, ICAO also requires general English language proficiency for pilots and controllers flying internationally or interacting with international flights.
Why is clear communication between pilots and air traffic controllers important?
Clear communication between pilots and air traffic controllers is absolutely necessary for safety. What happens when a flight crew flies to a country that speaks a different language? Just imagine: an Air China flight crew that speaks Mandarin arrives in Paris and must converse with French controllers.
What does ATC think about student pilots?
For example, ATC understands that student pilots are learning and will gladly give them additional assistance and some TLC if students identify themselves. If you look in AIM 4-2-e, you find all you have to say is, “Dayton Tower, this is Fleetwing one two three four, student pilot.”
How do flight crews communicate with each other?
As you can imagine, even with a common language, communication can still be challenging due to different accents around the world. When communicating with one another, flight crews and controllers usually say specific things at certain times. Just like actors following a script, the participants can anticipate what will be said and when.
What is the meaning of say altitude in aviation?
SAY ALTITUDE—Used by ATC to ascertain an aircraft’s specific altitude/flight level. When the aircraft is climbing or descending, the pilot should state the indicated altitude rounded to the nearest 100 feet. SAY HEADING—Used by ATC to request an aircraft heading. The pilot should state the actual heading of the aircraft.