Many student pilots training in Australia speak English as a second language (E2L). Having had several years training students with E2L, I've seen some quite interesting, funny and darn unsafe situations emerge.
Lack of an adequate level of competence in the English language impacts adversely on the performance of the individual concerned. Not to mention the safety of all in the vicinity, at the time.
Does anyone care to comment on this developing problem, and the apparent lack of concern expressed by the authorities and some operators? Are the authorities and/or operators more concerned with the recruitment of overseas revenue, than with safety and the pursuit of acceptable standards? Should specific English standards be enforced, as are those by universities (IELTS, etc.), for E2L students?
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[This message has been edited by Whiskey Hotel Delta (edited 13 February 1999).]