To operate radio equipment in an aeroplane, airship, powered lift aircraft or helicopter, a valid language proficiency endorsement in accordance with EASA FCL.055 for radio communication is required. The UK CAA can only endorse English language proficiency on licences they issue and will only issue an FRTOL when the applicant has demonstrated English Language Proficiency (ELP) to levels 4, 5 or 6, which must be valid on the date that the FRTOL is issued.
Further information can be found on the UK CAA website here.
For first-language speakers with native or native-like proficiency with an expert (Level 6) level of proficiency, Andrews’ Aviation can evaluate language proficiency either by:
Language assessment during a skill test, i.e. the FRTOL Practical Test or;
Informal assessments may be conducted e.g. a face-to-face interview or oral interaction with our FRTOL Examiner. Note: UK CAA does not permit virtual informal assessments.
When assessed during the FRTOL Practical Test the ICAO English Language Proficiency section of CAA5003 will be completed by the FRTOL Examiner. Otherwise, an application for Record of English Language Assessment (SRG 1199) is made online. The old paper-based SRG 1199 form has been withdrawn and is no longer accepted.
If your language level does not meet a level 6 in accordance with EASA FCL.055 then the candidate will be advised to go to an expert assessor, such as a CAA approved language school. The list of organisations approved by UK CAA for the assessment of aviation English language proficiency is included in Standards Document 31.
If you have been previously assessed for English language proficiency below Level 6 then an FRTOL Examiner may not change this assessment and the candidate will be advised to go to contact a CAA approved language school.