DGCA unlikely to hold Radio Telephony test for pilots
It is aimed at to assessing if they are fully trained to communicate with ATCs for all kinds of situations
image for illustrative purpose
New Delhi Aviation regulator Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) might not hold radio communication skill tests, also known as Radio Telephony exam, for pilots in 2024, according to sources.
On May 1, 2023, the Ministry of Communication, which presently conducts the test, officially handed over the responsibility of conducting the test to DGCA from 2024 onwards after aviation experts and pilots’ bodies alleged lack of expertise and malpractices. However, the regulator has initiated a process to scrap the post of officers responsible to hold the exam. Radio communication skill tests, officially called Radio Telephony Restricted License or RTR(A) test, is conducted for pilots by the Wireless Planning & Coordination (WPC) wing of the Ministry of Communication to assess if they are fully trained to communicate with Air Traffic Controllers (ATCs) for all kinds of situations.
Radio telephone is a communication system operated between air crew members and pilots to connect with ATCs and ground stations. This system is crucial for airline operators. Due to technical reasons, WPC has the authority to conduct this test. Once a candidate clears RTR(A) test, he or she becomes eligible to get Flight Radio Telephone Operator (FTRO) licence from DGCA. Without an FTRO licence, a candidate cannot get a Commercial Pilot’s Licence (CPL) from the aviation regulator.
