Just listening to a number of the audio phraseology samples supplied with ITA. Of course a number of the messages require a read back which contains a fair bit of information. Do controllers simply retain all the information that is being said or do they have aids in doing the read back. Some of the speakers talk so fast that it just seems like a ton of info to retain that fast and then repeat back.

rspencer38 wrote:Just listening to a number of the audio phraseology samples supplied with ITA. Of course a number of the messages require a read back which contains a fair bit of information. Do controllers simply retain all the information that is being said or do they have aids in doing the read back. Some of the speakers talk so fast that it just seems like a ton of info to retain that fast and then repeat back.

You'll usually have a flight progress strip if front of you that you are either reading from, or recording the info on to. You won't need to memorize. You also won't talk that fast while you're training.

In addition, it's ok to seek clarification if you can't remember, miss hear something. Never assume in ATC.

Thanks for the reply! I figured there must have been some form of information. Of course, being experienced certainly allows for easier and faster understanding.

rspencer38 wrote:Thanks for the reply! I figured there must have been some form of information. Of course, being experienced certainly allows for easier and faster understanding.

It depends on the unit you will be at. We don't really use strips so it's mostly memory. Don't worry, it gets easier with time. You get used to listening for the specific info you need.