Keep it simple

[Navi-Gator]

Bin aviating in Europe for a number of years and just lately I have been more than circumspect regarding non UK ATC instructions.
Is there a source (for dummies) that note common ATC phraseology and the plain speaking translation and/or an ATCO rules source manual which is not written by lawyers.
Any pointers much appreciated.

[RogerOut]

Navi-gator, I've looked up my Manual for you and find, after blowing the dust away, that the publication you may require is ICAO Annex 10, Volume 2 - now I suspect that may be written by the very lawyers you dread. However, further down the page, the Book says CAP 413, Radiotelephony manual, also based on ICAO documents, is the standard text book for flight crew RTF and includes examples of communication between pilots and controllers. Now obviously it's a British publication but as we're all supposed to be singing from the same hymn book, this could be your desired bedtime reading...........

[Navi-Gator]

Thanks Roger out,
i will obtain a new copy of 413 as mine is archaic.
As an ATC type person can you resolve the following?

some where in Europe A/C given descend FL130 be at level by XXX and hold, possibly twice round.

3mins later and about 10nm to holding beacon A/C told cancel hold and head 130 deg descend FL110.
I was with TRG capt and he got upset that I was not at FL130 by abeam XXX, I said not needed, he got more upset, I shut up and concentrate on flying.
Who was correct?

[bill]

navi-gator:

you were right, new instruction cancels the old one.

[vertigo]

According to the strict letter of the law, you are correct bill, but it might be considered good airmanship to adhere to the 130 restriction anyway.

[Lon More]

If in doubt, query the restriction.