What is Aviation English? The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) was established in 1947 with a mission to standardize global air travel. Presently ICAO consists of 193 member countries. Since 2008, English licensing requirements were implemented to formally establish English as the primary language of international air travel. Cockpit crews and air traffic controllers are required to use English in radio communications while conducting international operations. English, therefore, is the global standard for communication in aviation. If you are seeking a career in the cockpit of an airliner, or are already in the cockpit, but wanting to progress to a higher level, learn about the AEA Process, then proceed to the Evaluation to determine the next steps.