AVIATION ENGLISH MATTERS
safety depends on it
In September 2022, we asked 1,974 aviation professionals
from 112 countries:
“Do you think that aviation safety is ever compromised
because of the way native speakers use English?”
65% said YES (24% NO, 11% I DON’T KNOW)
We know that language is an essential part of aviation safety. A study of 28,000
incident and accident reports found that more than 70% involved problems with
information transfer, primarily related to voice communications. This was one of the
triggers for the introduction of the ICAO Language Proficiency Requirements in 2008.
These English language standards apply to all pilots and controllers working
internationally (both native and non native English speakers).
But challenges still remain:
INCIDENT /
ACCIDENTS
A selection of videos of incidents and accidents where language was a contributing factor
ARTICLES &
REPORTS
A selection of research about Aviation English, specifically focusing on NS / NNS communication, culture, empathy and assertiveness
PERSONAL
STATEMENTS
Personal statements from pilots and ATCO’s about their experiences of communication breakdown
‘The single biggest problem in communication is the illusion that it has taken place’ George Bernard Shaw
AVIATION ENGLISH MATTERS
safety depends on it
In September 2022, we asked 1,974
aviation professionals from 112
countries:
“Do you think that aviation safety is ever
compromised because of the way native
speakers use English?”
65% said YES (24% NO, 11% I DON’T KNOW)
We know that language is an essential part of
aviation safety. A study of 28,000 incident and
accident reports found that more than 70% involved
problems with information transfer, primarily related
to voice communications. This was one of the
triggers for the introduction of the ICAO Language
Proficiency Requirements in 2008.
These English language standards apply to all pilots
and controllers working internationally (both native
and non native English speakers).
But challenges still remain:
INCIDENT /
ACCIDENTS
A selection of videos of incidents and accidents where language was a contributing factor
ARTICLES &
REPORTS
A selection of research about Aviation English, specifically focusing on NS / NNS communication, culture, empathy and assertiveness
PERSONAL
STATEMENTS
Personal statements from pilots and ATCO’s about their experiences of communication breakdown
‘The single biggest problem in communication is the
illusion that it has taken place.’ George Bernard Shaw
