Oct 04, 2025

Picture Descriptions in the ICAO English Test: How to Prepare

One of the most common tasks in the ICAO Language Proficiency Test (LPT) online is the description of aviation-related pictures — just like the one shown above. These images often show aircraft in various — and sometimes unusual — situations. At first glance, this might seem simple, but candidates are expected to describe them systematically, clearly, and in detail, demonstrating both vocabulary and fluency.

Why Picture Descriptions Matter

In aviation, clear communication is not just a formality; it is a core safety requirement. By describing pictures, examiners can evaluate whether a candidate is able to:

Recognize and explain visual details accurately.
Use aviation-specific vocabulary relevant to the ICAO English.
Communicate smoothly using appropriate grammar and sentence structures.
Respond naturally to unexpected elements in a scene.

This task reflects real-world operations: pilots and controllers often need to describe situations quickly and clearly, for example when reporting technical issues, unusual weather, or ground hazards.

Structure Your Description

When preparing for picture descriptions, it helps to follow a structured approach. Think about the different parts of the image:

Foreground: What is closest or most visible? For example, “I can see a large commercial aircraft being pushed back by a yellow tow truck.”
Background: What is happening further away? For example, “Behind the aircraft, there is a modern glass terminal building with several jet bridges connected to other airplanes.”
Additional Details: What else is noticeable? For example, “The atmosphere feels organized and calm, typical for ground operations at a large international airport.”

Using this framework shows examiners that you can observe systematically and explain clearly — exactly what is required in the ICAO Language Proficiency Test.

Useful Vocabulary and Phrases

To succeed in the ICAO English test, it’s important to expand your descriptive vocabulary. Words such as foreground, background, perspective, noticeable, prominent or phrases like “The main focus of the image is…” or “On the right side of the picture…” help you describe more naturally.

Examiners also want to see that you can talk about weather, lighting, and atmosphere, for example:

“It looks like the weather is changing, with clouds moving in.”
“The composition emphasizes the busy atmosphere of the airport.”

General Overview

Foreground / Background / Middle ground
Scene / Setting / Location
Perspective / Angle / View
Visible / Noticeable / Prominent
Composition / Layout
Atmosphere / Environment / Situation
Clear / Cloudy / Sunny / Rainy / Foggy / Stormy

Describing Objects and Positions

Next to / Behind / In front of / To the left of / To the right of
Above / Below / Between / Surrounded by
Shape / Size / Proportion
Features / Details / Design
Large / Small / Narrow / Wide
Close to / Far away

Phrases to Use in Descriptions

“In the foreground/background I can see…”
“On the left/right side of the image there is…”
“The main focus of the picture seems to be…”
“It appears that the aircraft is…”
“The atmosphere feels calm/dynamic/busy.”
“This image shows a typical airport scene with…”
“The weather looks like it is changing, with…”
“The composition emphasizes the contrast between…”

Picture Description in the ICAO English Test: Sample

Foreground:

“I can see an aircraft parked at the gate with the jet bridge connected to the front left door.”
“Two ground staff members are working near the left engine, loading luggage onto the aircraft using a conveyor belt.”

Background:

“Behind the aircraft, there is a wide view of the airfield with green grass areas and trees in the distance.”
“The runway and taxiway markings are visible in the background.”

Additional Details:

“The overall atmosphere appears calm and professional. The scene shows a typical turnaround situation at an airport under good weather conditions.”
“A small baggage cart is parked next to the ground crew.”

Watch our interactive preparation video to hear a spoken example.

How to Practice

The best way to prepare is by working with our ICAO Language Proficiency Test exam examples. Or look at aviation photos online, describe them out loud, and record yourself. Focus on:

Using the Present Continuous Tense (e.g., “The aircraft is taxiing on the wet runway.”).
Avoiding long pauses and filler words.
Combining general observations with specific details.

At sayagain.aero, we provide practical ICAO English test preparation, including samples, vocabulary lists, and guided practice sessions. Whether you are renewing ICAO Level 4, aiming for ICAO Level 5, or targeting the ICAO Level 6, our preparation materials help you improve systematically.

Final Thoughts

Picture descriptions in the ICAO English test online are not about being artistic — they are about showing that you can communicate clearly and systematically. By practicing structure, vocabulary, and fluency, you’ll not only succeed in the exam but also improve your everyday operational communication.

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