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Old 6th Jul 2007, 11:41
  #23 (permalink)  
BelArgUSA
 
Join Date: Jun 2005
Location: AEP
Age: 80
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Spanish or English - Argentina R/T

Gentlemen -
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Reading all opinions expressed here, it looks like we all speak "level 4 English" or better. Yes, I am for English as our common communication idiom in the skies, but I support the right for nations to use their local language(s) besides English, under certain circumstances. In Argentina, as an example, we recommend use of English and approve the use of Spanish for aviation.
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The Argentina AIP (Aviation Information Publication) informs that the various international airports in Argentina, such as Ezeiza (Buenos Aires), Cordoba, or Rio Gallegos have communications in English, but that for all other airports, Spanish is used, and English language ATC might NOT be available on tower and taxi frequencies. If you go to the other airport (domestic traffic) of Buenos Aires, Aeroparque, there, only Spanish is used at that airport, as it is with most smaller airports in Argentina.
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Also, I would inform you that we have 2 types of R/T licences in Argentina for pilots, one that is restricted to Spanish, the other, (held by all pilots working for air carriers) requires knowledge of English. Expect all VFR traffic to speak Spanish only. Some years ago, I sent a note to the Argentina DGAC secretary, to require an English proficiency test for the issuance of an Argentina ATPL. I understand it will be required soon.
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Many AIPs of other countries do have similar language limitations.
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Interesting to note, that when Air Force One (with USA President Bush, and previously with Clinton) visited Argentina in the past, a team of ATC specialists who were fluent with the English language, were sent to the airports where Air Force One was to operate.
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Hurz - I am also a "worldwide" pilot (remember PanAm by any chance?). Maybe my AR now does not fly as many places as your LH, but I have flown three times to the South Pole and back, on tourist flights, and I report to you that the pinguins there do not "quack" in English... Please inform the LBA...
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Happy contrails
BelArgUSA is offline