tests Dubai, July 26th,2007 (WAM) -- The Emirates Aviation College (Aerospace & Academic Studies wing), is the first, authorised institutein the UAE to offer the Aviation English Language Proficiency Test forpilots and air traffic controllers.

By March 2008, they must demonstrate an English language proficiencyof Level 4 (Operational), as mandated by the International Civil AviationOrganisation (ICAO), the UN body for civil aviation around the world.

College Vice-Chancellor Mohammed Al Budoor said: 'We are very pleasedto be the first authorised aviation institute in the UAE to offer thisEnglish language proficiency test.

'Civil aviation authorities and airlines across the Middle East, Asiaand Africa will now have the opportunity to have their staff tested withinthe pleasant and safe surroundings of Dubai.' The college recently signed a contract with sister company, Emirates Airline,whose pilots are required to take the test as part of their licensingby the UAE's General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA).

Capt Alan Stealey, Emirates' Divisional Senior Vice President for FlightOperations, expressed his appreciation to the college for providing thetest, adding: 'We are very pleased that our pilots, who are required byICAO to take this test, can conveniently use the college facilities herein Dubai.

'There has been tremendous co-operation between Emirates' Flight Operationsand the college over a very short timescale, in order to rise to the challengeof this regulatory requirement.'