ELPAC is the EUROCONTROL English language proficiency test for air traffic controllers and pilots.
Try the sample test
See the test interface, audio quality and question format before your real exam.
Implementing ELPAC
Guidance for ANSPs, airlines, training providers and authorities adopting or running ELPAC.
Examiner training
Accreditation, training materials and the rating scheme for ELPAC examiners.
An ICAO-compliant proficiency test for pilots and air traffic controllers
Designed for licensing use — results available the same day
ELPAC is an English language proficiency test for air traffic controllers and pilots. The test can be used by air navigation service providers, aircraft operators and aviation training organisations as part of the routine competency checks for their licensed pilots and controllers, and students in aviation training. ELPAC was developed by EUROCONTROL together with ZHAW and is operated with ENOVATE.
From registration to result in four steps
- 1Register
Your organisation's ELPAC test administrator schedules you for a test session in the ELPAC test system.
- 2Paper 1 — Listening
A 45-item computer-marked listening paper set in the candidate's operational context (ATC or Pilot version).
- 3Paper 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 (a serving or former air traffic controller or pilot).
- 4Result
Test results are reported to the user organisation immediately after Paper 2.
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), a serving 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).
Ready to take or administer the test?
Test administrators sign in to the ELPAC test system on elpactest.eu. Test takers can try the sample test before sitting the real exam.