The spelling alphabet
Each letter has a code word. The capitalised part of the respelling shows where the stress falls. Tap a tile to see the word, and say it out loud.
Tap a letter, say the word aloud, then tap again to hide it.
Numbers
Digits are spoken one by one, and a few have a special pronunciation to avoid confusion.
| Digit | Say | Digit | Say |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 | ZE-RO | 5 | FIFE |
| 1 | WUN | 6 | SIX |
| 2 | TOO | 7 | SEV-EN |
| 3 | TREE | 8 | AIT |
| 4 | FOW-ER | 9 | NIN-ER |
A decimal point is said “DAY-SEE-MAL”. So 118.7 becomes “wun wun ait day-see-mal sev-en”.
Levels and headings
Flight levels and headings are read digit by digit: flight level 120 is “flight level wun too zero”. Headings are given as three digits, so 090 is “zero niner zero”. Whole thousands may use the word “thousand”, as in “two thousand”.
Three drills
- Call-sign drill. Spell your own aircraft registration aloud five times.
- City drill. Spell six airport codes, for example VIDP and VABB.
- Frequency drill. Read ten random frequencies aloud, slowly at first.
Quick answers
Why is nine said “niner”?
It prevents confusion with the German word “nein” and keeps the digit distinct on a poor signal.
Is the spelling alphabet tested?
Yes. It appears in both the written paper and the practical, usually through call signs.
Answer questions on this topic, or run a full radio call out loud.
This guide is general study help written by RTR Exam. It is not an official publication of DGCA or ICAO. Confirm rules, fees, dates and syllabus with DGCA's latest notice.