Language barriers in the cockpit
 

Hello Everyone!
I'm currently working my way towards my licenses and as part of my program we have to write a report about an aviation-related topic, my topic of choice is language barriers within commercial aviation. So I thought I'd ask you guys if anyone here has had any problems in the cockpit where language clearly was a barrier to communication. Did you ever feel it affected the safety of operations? Any stories would be greatly appreciated :) If anyone would be willing to let me ask any further questions in a short interview I'd be incredibly grateful :)
Thanks in advance!
/Rasmus, Sweden

Hi Rasmus,

I can help you. Send me a PM if still interested.

Thanks

Couple of stories I heard from Japanese air traffic controllers discovering vital differences in meaning between US and UK pilots' English. PM if you like.

RELATED PAPER
 

Rasmus,

There is an excellent paper submitted to Embry-Riddle in 2007 which may give you a wider perspective and assist in your endeavours. the synopsis is:


Controller-to-controller communication plays a vital role in coordination of air traffic and maintaining a safe and efficient flow of airport operations. Aviation accident investigators have demonstrated how communication breakdown between pilots and air traffic controllers has lead to disastrous results. American military air traffic controllers assigned to air traffic control (ATC) facilities outside the U. S. work in close relations with host nation air traffic controllers in support of U.S. military aircraft operations. These facilities allow the U.S. personnel to control aircraft in a country where the spoken native language is sometimes one the U.S. controller might not understand. The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) outlines the language requirements for pilots and air traffic controllers operating outside of the U.S. However, ICAO specifies the language or languages to be used are the nationally designated languages for air traffic control in that specific country. Communications and teamwork between controllers enable missions to be accomplished safely and efficiently. However, even in a multi-cultural environment, controllers must still interact face-to-face in a time critical
environment, leaving little room for miscommunication and misunderstanding.

PM me if you are interested and I'll put you in contact with the author.

MJG

I tried to message you but couldn't find any way to message you, but definitely interested.

It would definitely be of interest, couldn't find a way to PM you though...