EASA 090

Communications

EASA PPL subject 090 — ICAO phraseology & ATC procedures

Communications (090) overlaps significantly with the R/T Training (RT-VFR certificate). You learn standard ICAO phraseology, emergency procedures (MAYDAY, PAN-PAN), air traffic control communication and the radiotelephony alphabet. Anyone who also gets the RT-VFR certificate will master this subject almost automatically.

Topics covered

  • Radiotelephony alphabet: Alpha, Bravo, Charlie...
  • Standard ICAO phraseology: readback procedures
  • ATC services: TWR, APP, ACC and AFIS
  • Emergency procedures: MAYDAY and PAN-PAN
  • Transponder: squawk codes and IDENT
  • Frequencies: aviation frequencies and usage
  • Language requirements: ICAO language levels (LPE)

Study tips for Communications

1

Combine this subject with R/T Training: you learn phraseology best by practising.

2

Listen to LiveATC.net for real ATC communications as a listening exercise.

3

MAYDAY vs PAN-PAN: know the difference and the exact wording.

4

Repeat the phonetic alphabet until you can recite it flawlessly and quickly.

Specialists for Communications

These coaches and tutors specialise in this subject.

A.D.
Subject Expert Technical Subjects

Flight Instructor FI(A) with an MSc in Aerospace. Active instructor and the go-to person for everything related to aircraft systems, aerodynamics and weather.

  • Aircraft General Knowledge (021)
  • Principles of Flight (081)
  • Meteorology (050)
T.B.
Subject Expert Meteorology & Communications

CPL/IR holder and former ATC staff with 10+ years of aviation weather experience. Explains complex weather systems and ATC procedures clearly and practically.

  • Meteorology (050): weather charts, clouds, wind
  • Human Performance (040)
  • Communications (090): ATC & ICAO phraseology

Need broader support?

These coaches support your broader PPL journey and study planning.

Ready to tackle Communications?

Book a free intro call with one of our specialists for subject 090.