Reviewed by Tim Hittinger, ICAO examiner (A-126-LPE)What does ICAO Level 5 mean?
Level 5 is called Extended. You don’t just communicate safely, you communicate confidently: you speak at length and fluently, understand even difficult situations accurately and actively move conversations forward. An accent is, of course, allowed.
The most important practical advantage: under FCL.055 (c), Level 5 is re-evaluated only after 6 years – instead of after 4 years as with Level 4.
How Level 5 differs from Level 4
| Criterion | Level 4 | Level 5 |
|---|---|---|
| Pronunciation | sometimes interferes with understanding | rarely interferes with understanding |
| Structure | basic grammar mostly correct | basic grammar consistently controlled, complex sentences too |
| Vocabulary | sufficient for familiar topics | sufficient for unfamiliar topics too, sometimes idiomatic |
| Fluency | falters in spontaneous speech | longer contributions with relative ease |
| Comprehension | slower with complications | accurate – even with unexpected turns |
| Interactions | responds appropriately | responds quickly and informatively, manages the conversation |
Simplified summary of the ICAO Rating Scale (AMC2 FCL.055).
How do I reach Level 5?
Level 5 is only certified in the open Level 4–6 test. You don’t need to decide in advance: the result depends on the performance you show. The weakest of the six criteria decides – your overall level is always the lowest individual rating.
Example: fluency, vocabulary and comprehension at Level 6, structure at Level 5 – the result is Level 5.
Tips for Level 5
- Connect your ideas. Words such as however, on the other hand, as a result, in my experience show structure and fluency.
- Tell it with examples. A short experience from the cockpit is more convincing than a general answer.
- Stay calm with complications. When a question takes an unexpected turn, that is exactly the Level 5 test.
- Paraphrase smoothly. Replacing missing words elegantly is a Level 5 strength.
- Listen actively. Pick up on what the examiner says and respond to it.
More tips and useful phrases are in our preparation guide. For an honest assessment, book the 45-minute training – the trainer tells you whether it would be enough for L4, L5 or L6.
Frequently asked questions about Level 5
I have Level 4 – can I take Level 5 now?
Yes, at any time. You don’t need an existing level and you don’t have to wait for your Level 4 to expire.
What if it isn’t quite enough for Level 5?
Then you receive Level 4, provided your performance matches it. There is no decision in advance.
Is Level 5 worth it compared to Level 4?
In numbers, often yes: €259 for 6 years is about €43 per year – Level 4 only costs about €50 per year over 4 years. And you have fewer re-evaluations to organise.