The LAA Pilot Coaching Scheme will be in attendance at the Popham Microlight Trade Fair on the LAA stand May 4 and 5, and again at Aero Expo on June 1 and 2. PCS chairman Jon Cooke and LAA coach John Brady will be available to sign your Level 6 English Language Proficiency (see below), as well as discuss any licensing and training enquiries. At other events where the LAA trade stand is present, LAA coaches will be available to assist with enquiries. With UK already in the transition to EASA licensing, please do come along and have a chat.
English Language Proficiency
For those who wish to use the Language Proficiency Endorsement service, please print off and bring along a Form SRG 1199 for us to sign. You will need to bring along some means of photo identification too. Form SRG 1199 states that a certified copy of your identification is required. However, the CAA has kindly agreed that where the form is completed by the Light Aircraft Association, a certified copy of your identification is not required.
The process is fairly simple and will last less than ten minutes. It involves a face-to-face aviation-related conversation. This takes the form of some general conversation, some radio phraseology and pronunciation. Don't worry if you don't know the answer to any question you are asked, as it's a great opportunity for us to discuss this in English.
If you will be applying for an EASA licence you will also need some documents photocopied for us to certify. At the end of Form SRG 1104 is a checklist: bring along a copy of your passport or driving licence; a copy of your Certificate of Revalidation page; and a copy of your medical for us to certify.
We will be making the process as easy as possible for you to complete whilst complying with CAA requirements. I look forward to seeing you there.
Jon Cooke
Pilot Coaching Scheme Chairman
Light Aircraft Association
Why do I need English Language Proficiency?
ICAO introduced the requirement in March 2008 for all pilots of aeroplane, helicopter, airship and powered lift aircraft to be proficient in their command of the languages that they use for radio communication. This is required in ENGLISH for the issue of a UK FRTOL. ICAO Annex I specifies the minimum standard for the holder of a licence to be Level 4, whereas Level 6 is fluent.
The ICAO standard for language proficiency has been applicable for some time, but EASA Aircrew Regulation makes it a requirement for the issue of a licence. In 2008 all UK Radio Telephony Licence holders were issued Level 4, but whilst Level 6 is a once only event and is valid for life, Level 4 is only valid for four years, and Level 5 for six years. Therefore many UK licence holders now have an expired Language Proficiency on their electronic record at CAA.
This only becomes a problem when a licence application is processed, since valid language proficiency is required for the CAA to issue the new licence.
What happens to the SRG 1199 form?
When your form is received by the CAA, they will enter your level of Language Proficiency on your electronic record. A Level 6 endorsement is valid for life, so should not need to be repeated. However, it is recommended that you keep a copy of the form should you need to provide evidence in the future.
Will I get a new licence printed with Level 6 entered in it?
No, you will not. When this form is received by the CAA they will enter Level 6 onto your electronic record. You will not receive any notification from the CAA. Should you wish to confirm the level which is entered on your record, e-mail [email protected]
What if I am not fluent English?
If you are not fluent English speaking you must be assessed at a Language School. We are only able to endorse fluent English speakers at these events. If you are unsure, please review the documentation which provides guidance on language assessment.
Where can I find more information?
The CAA has produced Standards Document 51, which contains guidance for examiners and candidates on the process for the testing of English Language Proficiency. This contains extracts from the relevant legislation as to the rating scale, and what each level requires.
2nd April 2013