Where can I find the requirements on language proficiency for vehicle drivers at EU aerodromes?
Answer
Regulation (EU) No 139/2014 on aerodromes requires that any person that intends to drive on the manoeuvring area of an aerodrome must demonstrate language proficiency at least at an operational level in the English language and any other language or languages used at the aerodrome for radio communication purposes with the air traffic services (ATS) unit at the aerodrome.
The Regulation allows aerodrome operators to issue authorisations for driving on the manoeuvring area without the drivers having demonstrated language proficiency at an operational level until January 2026 as regards the English language, while language proficiency for any other language already applies as of 7 January 2023.
Regulation (EU) No 139/2014 can be accessed via the Official Publication of the European Union. It is also available on the EASA website as Commission Regulation (EU) No 139/2014 and under Easy Access Rules for Aerodromes, where you can also find a consolidated version of the Regulation along with the related Acceptable Means of Compliance and Guidance Material (points ADR.OPS.B.024 and ADR.OPS.B.029, including AMC & GM).