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The priorities for safe flying are  ‘Aviate, Navigate, then Communicate’. Whilst this is always true, correct standard radiotelephony (RTF) phraseology makes an important contribution to the safe and efficient operation of aircraft. Communication errors and inappropriate use of phraseology continue to feature as contributory factors in safety-related incidents throughout Europe involving General Aviation (GA) aircraft, such as AIRPROXES, runway incursions and airspace infringements.

To conform to International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) Language Proficiency requirements, pilots and others who use radiotelephony communications must have achieved a specified level of proficiency in English. GA pilots come from different backgrounds, and some have difficulty learning or remembering how to use RTF efficiently. This document provides pilots with a guide in English to common phraseology used during GA flights in Europe and explains why certain words and phrases are used. The aim is to improve safety by helping pilots and ground stations  communicate clearly.
Phraseology has been developed over time to provide maximum clarity and brevity in communications. However, while standard phraseology is available to cover most routine situations, not everything can be catered for or remembered. Therefore, pilots should be prepared to use simple language when necessary, keeping phrases as clear and concise as possible. Long radio calls with unnecessary information waste time and may endanger others

• Guide to Phraseology for General Aviation Pilots in Europe