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EUROCONTROL
ELPAC

ELPAC is the EUROCONTROL English Language Proficiency test for air traffic controllers and pilots.

Where to start

For test takers

Try the sample test

See the test interface, audio quality and question format before your real exam.

Sample tests
For organisations

Implementing ELPAC

Guidance for ANSPs, airlines, training providers and authorities interested in using ELPAC.

Implementing ELPAC
For examiners

Examiner training

Accreditation, calibration, practical training and the ELPAC rating scheme for ELPAC examiners.

Examiner training
About ELPAC

English Language Proficiency for aeronautical communication

ELPAC is a test instrument for assessing the English language proficiency of air traffic controllers and pilots. It is designed for use in accordance with ICAO, EASA and local licensing rules and requirements, and can be used by air navigation service providers, aircraft operators, aviation training organisations and aviation authorities as part of licensing and routine competency checks for pilots, air traffic controllers and students in aviation training.

ELPAC supports the use of the test instrument through implementation support and ELPAC examiner training.
How it works

The ELPAC process in four steps

  1. 1
    Register

    The user organisation's ELPAC test administrator schedules the candidate for a test session in the ELPAC test system.

  2. 2
    Paper 1 — Listening

    A 45-item computer-marked listening test set in the candidate's operational context (ATC or Pilot version).

  3. 3
    Paper 2 — Speaking

    A face-to-face speaking assessment applying the ICAO holistic descriptors and ICAO rating scale criteria, rated live by two accredited examiners: an English Language Expert and an Operational Expert (an operational or former air traffic controller or pilot).

  4. 4
    Result

    Test results are available to the user organisation very quickly after Paper 2, and test takers are informed by the ELPAC test administrator at their test centre.

Quick links
Results, re-sits & appeals →Documents library →Validity argument summary →ICAO recognition →FAQ →Contact →
The Test

Two papers. ICAO-compliant. Operationally relevant.

ELPAC is delivered as a digital test in two papers. Paper 1 is a computer-marked listening test in aviation context. Paper 2 is a face-to-face speaking assessment rated live by two accredited examiners: an English Language Expert (ELE) and an Operational Expert (OPE), an operational or former air traffic controller or pilot. Each examiner independently applies the ICAO holistic descriptors and ICAO rating scale criteria. The overall ICAO level awarded is the lowest of the six sub-ratings. When the two examiners cannot reconcile, the case is resolved through a documented dispute-resolution mechanism (a third examiner).

Read about the test
Paper 1 — Listening
45 items, computer-marked, separate ATC and Pilot versions.
Paper 2 — Speaking
Face-to-face speaking assessment rated against the ICAO holistic descriptors and ICAO rating scale criteria by two accredited examiners: an ELE and an OPE.
ICAO Levels 3 to 6
Results are reported against the ICAO language proficiency rating scale.