Investigating the Aviation English Needs of Ab-Initio Air Traffic Controllers

The aim of the study was to investigate the Aviation English needs of ab-initio air traffic controllers by applying a needs analysis model from the field of English for Specific Purposes, which emphasizes three key dimensions: lacks, wants, and necessities. The participant group comprised 86 ab-initio air traffic controllers who were enrolled in course-based and university-based undergraduate education programs in Türkiye. The data were collected using a structured questionnaire employing a 5-point Likert scale. The results revealed that the highest average score was in the want dimension (M= 3.9163), indicating a strong internal motivation to improve Aviation English skills. The necessity dimension followed (M= 3.6964), showing that participants recognized the importance of meeting professional language requirements. The lack dimension received the lowest score (M= 3.5388), suggesting a moderate level of perceived language deficiencies. These findings point to the need for training programs that balance personal motivation with regulatory and operational standards. A well-designed Aviation English program should integrate learners’ goals with the communication demands of the profession to enhance both language development and aviation safety.