1

Identify aviation communication system features

1.1

System features and control functions of aviation communication systems are identified

1.2

Equipment signals and alerts are monitored

1.3

Aviation communication channels are selected in accordance with airport procedures

2

Communicate using aviation communications technology

2.1

Aviation communication systems are checked in accordance with manufacturers’ instructions and airport procedures

2.2

Aviation communication systems are operated in accordance with manufacturers’ instructions, airport procedures and regulatory requirements

2.3

Appropriate aviation communication channels are selected for the location and type of communication

2.4

Radio messages are clear, precise and unambiguous with due regard to ethics, protocols and procedures

2.5

Aviation terminology and message structure are used when communicating using aviation communications technology

2.6

Incoming messages are received and answered promptly and courteously within operating procedures and regulatory requirements

2.7

Non-procedural terminology is used when necessary to assist message clarity and understanding

2.8

Aviation communication protocols and procedures are followed when using communication systems during emergencies

3

Maintain operational status of aviation communication equipment

3.1

Communication systems are maintained in working order in accordance with manufacturers’ instructions

3.2

System faults are identified and minor faults are rectified in accordance with manufacturers’ instructions and procedures

3.3

Major system faults are reported in accordance with workplace procedures

4

Complete aviation documentation

4.1

Appropriate communication records are completed in accordance with workplace procedures and aviation regulatory requirements

This describes the essential knowledge and skills and their level required for this unit.

Required knowledge:

Communication system operation and procedures

Protocols and procedures for communicating with others using communications technology

Aviation terminology and vocabulary

Procedures and protocols for the use of communication systems during an emergency

Features of various communications systems

Applicable airport and aviation procedures and regulations relating to radio communications at an airport

Basic communication techniques including barriers to effective communication and how to overcome them

Basic principles of effective communication

Pre-operational checks for communication systems and equipment

Minor routine maintenance procedures for communications equipment

Typical problems that may occur when using communication systems and appropriate action and solutions

Aviation communication channels and frequency bands

Communication records and documentation in the aviation airport environment

Required skills:

Communicate effectively with others using available communications equipment and in accordance with aviation communication protocols and procedures

Respond to radio communication in accordance with aviation communication protocols and procedures

Read and interpret instructions and procedures relevant to the use of communications equipment

Complete documentation related to work activities when using communications equipment

Interpret and understand communications and aviation specific terminology

Identify and use required communication technology

Work collaboratively with others when using communications equipment

Report and/or rectify any identified problems, faults or malfunctions that may occur when using communications equipment in accordance with workplace procedures

Operate and adapt to differences in communication equipment in accordance with standard operating procedures

Monitor performance of communication equipment and take appropriate action

Change communication channels or frequencies in accordance with workplace or aviation procedures

The evidence guide provides advice on assessment and must be read in conjunction with the performance criteria, required knowledge and skills, the range statement and the assessment guidelines for this Training Package.

Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit

The evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit must be relevant to and satisfy all of the requirements of the elements and performance criteria of this unit and include:

demonstrate the correct use of radio communication equipment used in the aviation airport environment

demonstrate the ability to source and program the correct aviation channels or frequencies on radio communication equipment

correctly make broadcasts and interpret radio messages in accordance with operational policies and procedures

demonstrate a knowledge of communication protocols and procedures used during emergency situations

demonstrate the ability to correctly diagnose a radio fault and rectify the fault in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions or workplace procedures

accurately complete communication records in accordance with workplace procedures and aviation regulatory requirements

Context of and specific resources for assessment

Performance is demonstrated consistently over a period of time and in a suitable range of contexts

Resources for assessment include:

a range of relevant exercises, case studies and/or other simulated practical and knowledge assessment, and/or

access to an appropriate range of relevant operational situations in the workplace

In both real and simulated environments, access is required to:

relevant and appropriate materials and equipment, and

applicable documentation including workplace procedures, regulations, codes of practice and operation manuals

Method of assessment

Assessment of knowledge must be conducted through appropriate written/oral assessments

Practical assessment must occur:

through activities in an appropriately simulated environment at the registered training organisation, and/or

in an appropriate range of situations in the workplace

The range statement relates to the unit of competency as a whole. It allows for different work environments and situations that may affect performance.

Use of communication systems includes that required in routine operations and may occur by day or night and in a variety of work contexts, including:

in confined spaces, exposed conditions and controlled or open environments

in a workplace, terminal or apron

in a vehicle

in an aircraft

Communication systems may include:

radios including personal, hand-held or vehicle mounted, CB, UHF, VHF, SSB

Worksite communication may include:

active listening

two-way communication

questioning to obtain information and/or clarify information and understanding

routine oral reporting

Communications may involve:

English speaking persons

multilingual staff

Communication problems may include:

misunderstanding

noisy environments or communications channels

illegible writing or print

use of non-standard vocabulary

incorrect assumption that message has been received and/or understood

not following correct communication protocols and procedures

unfamiliar aviation or non aviation terminology

Communication may be with:

other airport personnel

managers

supervisors/team leaders

airline representatives

police and other emergency services personnel

other professional or technical staff

local government authorities

Depending on the type of airport concerned and the local terminology used, workplace procedures may include:

airport procedures

company procedures

enterprise procedures

organisational procedures

established procedures

Information/documentation may include:

airport or workplace communication procedures, protocols, checklists and instructions

manufacturers’ specifications for communications equipment

aircraft and vehicle identification codes

client and/or supplier instructions

material safety data sheets

relevant codes of practice including the National Standards for Manual Handling and the industry safety code

legislation, regulations and related documentation

award, enterprise bargaining agreement, other industrial arrangements

standards and certification requirements

quality assurance procedures

emergency procedures

Applicable regulations and legislation may include:

relevant regulations, standards and codes of practice, including the Civil Aviation Act, Civil Aviation Regulations and Civil Aviation Safety Regulations

relevant Australian and state/territory occupational health and safety (OHS) legislation

equal employment opportunity and anti-discrimination legislation and related policies

environmental protection regulations