Sample Exam for ATCOs

The SkyComm Test of Aviation English for Air Traffic Controllers (ATCOs) is designed to assess the communication skills in both routine and non-routine aviation scenarios, following ICAO Language Proficiency Requirements (LPRs). The exam includes a series of tasks that evaluate specific language skills critical for safe and clear communication between pilots and ATCOs.

Exam Structure

This structured assessment, lasting approximately 60 minutes, ensures a thorough evaluation of ATCOs' aviation English proficiency in realistic contexts. Each task is specifically crafted to reflect real-world situations, providing an authentic testing experience to help ATCOs comply with global standards.

The SkyComm for ATC Test of Aviation English includes nine tasks under two main sections, listening and speaking consecutively.

Part 1 - Listening
Short Messages

In this task, there are three short pilot-to-controller radio messages. The test-takers will listen to each radio message and then fill in the information missing.

Part 1 - Listening Extended Communication

In this task, there is an extended radio communication. The test-takers will be presented two multiple choice questions after listening to the recording.

Part 1 - Listening Incomplete Statements

The candidates are presented with a radio communication recording between a pilot and an air traffic controller, and they will need to identify the statement that completes the incomplete statements correctly.

Part 1 - Listening
False Statements

In this task, there is an aeronautical radio communication recording, and there are two questions related to it. The candidates need to identify the false statement in each question.

Part 2 - Speaking
Personal Interview

In this task, the candidates will be addressed five short questions about their professional background, motivation for becoming an air traffic controller, general aviation, etc.

Part 2 - Speaking
Accurate Phareseology

Candidates will be presented with two different scenarios involving standard radio communications. They will first listen to each radio call, then respond to the call using standard phraseology.

Part 2 - Speaking
Picture Description

In this task, the candidates will be shown a photo depicting an aviation-related situation, and they will be expected to describe the photo in as much detail as possible.

Part 2 - Speaking
Video Description

Candidates will be shown a video depicting an aviation-related situation, and they will be required to describe the chain of events in the video in as much detail as possible.

Part 2 - Speaking
Emergency Response

Candidates will be presented an emergency scenario in the form of audio recordings. They will also be presented a fact sheet detailing all the information regarding the emergency situation. They will review the scenario and describe they would handle the situation based on the information given.