Which persons could be considered as “qualified” to perform the language proficiency assessments for the national language?
The qualifications of the persons that can be considered as suitable to perform language assessments are described in AMC3 ADR.OPS.B.029(e), where it is stated that assessors should be either aviation specialists or language specialists with additional aviation-related training.
Can a certificate for the successful completion of the minimum level of education (school diploma) in each country be considered as equivalent to the assessment of the national language(s) proficiency?
Demonstration of language proficiency is not only a knowledge of the language, but the ability to meet the requirements in point ADR.OPS.B.029(b). Therefore, a school diploma (or equivalent) cannot substitute an assessment. In any case, the absence of a school diploma (or equivalent) cannot exclude persons from the assessment of national language proficiency.
Can language proficiency assessments be conducted by the aerodrome operators themselves?
Yes, the language proficiency assessment can be conducted by the aerodrome operator; the aerodrome operator takes this decision.
Where can guidelines be found for the provision of internal training and examination concerning language proficiency assessments?
The following International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) documents contain useful material for the training and examination regarding the language proficiency assessments:
- ICAO Doc 9835 Manual on the Implementation of ICAO Language Proficiency Requirements;
- ICAO Doc 10197 Test Design Guidelines: Handbook on the Design of Tests for the ICAO Language Proficiency Requirements; and
- ICAO EUR Doc 046 Guidance on the Harmonized Implementation of Language Proficiency Requirements and its Oversight.