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Sound Like a Professional
Most of us who have been controllers or pilots for awhile can tell the difference between a professional and an amateur over the radio. The professional has a calm, confident sounding tone while the amateur is often broken and unsure if what they are requesting is going to be approved or make any sense.
Let me tell you a little secret: the more confident you sound over the radio, the more likely the controller is to approve your request! In other words, if you sound like a professional, you will be treated like a professional. If you sound like an amateur, you will be treated as an amateur.
Here are some suggestions to improve your radio technique and sound like a pro:
1. Speak at a steady pace.
2. Pronounce each word as clearly as possible.
3. Keep the pitch of your voice and your tone even and consistent.
4. Plan each transmission before you say it.
5. Acknowledge receipt of each message you receive from air traffic control.
6. If you do not understand something that has been said, ask for clarification.
7. Listen for a few seconds before transmitting on a new frequency. This will ensure you do not interrupt any transmissions already in progress.
8. Use approved, standard phraseology whenever possible. You may use plain language when required, but be as clear and specific as possible.
Getting comfortable with Aviation English is all about practice. Log on to ATCreadback's premium account for tips on feeling more confident over the radio, and getting what you want from the controller.