ICAO Language Proficiency Requirements and Training Guidance for Thailand

Abstract

Abstract

The English language has been considered a contributory factor causing confusion or misunderstandingin aviation communication; therefore, affecting safety of aircraft and passengers in air travels. The InternationalCivil Aviation Organization or ICAO now requires aviation personnel involved in international operations tomeet the language proficiency requirements imposed by the Organization. In Thailand English proficiencyis a requirement. Nevertheless, no official training has been created to assess English language proficiencyrequirements for ICAO. This paper discusses essential elements that are important to the development ofthe training, which will suit the requirements as imposed by ICAO. This includes the concept of Englishfor international users, qualifications for raters and interviewers, essence of pronunciation in relation tointelligibility and comprehensibility as well as the significance of plain English. The discussion is hopedto be recommended guidance leading to implementation of the training in the ICAO language proficiencyrequirements for Thailand.

Keywords: English as an International Language, Intelligibility, Comprehensibility