English is the International Language of Flight
Since we’re on the subject of air traffic control, let’s talk about the professionals working in the tower. Air traffic controllers have one of the toughest jobs in aviation. Their responsibilities are huge, including maintaining the right traffic patterns for both the number of aircraft in the sky and the current weather conditions; facilitating communication between various aircraft and the tower; directing takeoffs and landings; and handling emergency situations as they arise. This requires a cool head, perfect mental and physical health, and a whole lot of training.
You know that air traffic controllers talk to aircraft, but did you ever wonder how they manage to communicate with pilots from all over the world? With thousands of languages out there, how do international airports make it work?
The secret is . . English. They all speak English. Due to a series of international treaties going back to the 1920s, English has become the standard language of international aviation. Pilots, air crews, air traffic controllers—they’re all expected to have an appropriate level of proficiency in the English language, regardless of where they work or what country they fly to. This may seem a little unfair, but in reality it is a vital safety measure to ensure that things run smoothly.
Feeling bad about not doing well in high school Spanish? Us too.