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10. Phraseology

10.1 General

Standard phraseology ensures clear, concise, and unambiguous communication between controllers and pilots.

The Approach Controller shall use ICAO standard phraseology at all times.


10.2 General Principles

The Approach Controller shall:

  • Use clear and concise instructions
  • Avoid unnecessary or non-standard words
  • Speak at a controlled and intelligible pace
  • Ensure instructions are unambiguous

10.3 Readback Requirements

The Approach Controller shall ensure that pilots correctly read back:

  • Headings
  • Altitudes and levels
  • Speeds
  • Clearances (including approach and take-off)

Incorrect or incomplete readbacks shall be corrected immediately.


10.4 Radar Instructions

The Approach Controller shall issue clear and standard instructions:

Turn left heading 180.  
Climb to 5000 feet.  
Descend to 3000 feet.

Instructions shall include all required elements and be easily understood.


10.5 Speed Control

The Approach Controller shall use standard phraseology:

Reduce speed to 180 knots.  
Maintain 160 knots to 4 DME.

Speed instructions shall be issued in sufficient time for pilot compliance.


10.6 Approach Clearance

The Approach Controller shall issue approach clearance using standard phraseology:

Cleared ILS approach runway XX.  
Cleared RNAV approach runway XX.

Approach clearance shall only be issued when positioning and separation are assured.


10.7 Transfer of Communication

The Approach Controller shall transfer aircraft using standard phraseology:

Contact Tower 118.1.

Frequency instructions shall be clear and accurate.


10.8 Go-Around / Missed Approach

The Approach Controller or Tower Controller shall issue:

Go around, fly runway heading, climb to 3000 feet.

Instructions shall be immediate and unambiguous.


10.9 Limitations

The Approach Controller shall not:

  • Use non-standard or informal language
  • Issue ambiguous or incomplete instructions
  • Overload the pilot with excessive information
  • Omit critical elements of an instruction

10.10 Key Principle

Phraseology shall be standard, clear, and concise.

The Approach Controller shall:

  • Use ICAO standard phraseology
  • Confirm critical instructions
  • Avoid ambiguity

Effective phraseology reduces errors and enhances safety.