RTR(A) Exam Pattern Explained

Understanding the WPC RTR (Aero) Exam

The Restricted Radio Telephone Operator's Certificate of Proficiency (RTR-A) is issued by the Wireless Planning and Coordination (WPC) Wing of the Ministry of Communications, India. It is a mandatory license for operating radio equipment on board aircraft in India.

The exam is notoriously difficult due to its unique two-part structure and the strict evaluation by a panel of WPC and DGCA examiners.

Part 1: Transmission (Practical)

Part 1 simulates a real-world flight environment. You are provided with a route and a series of situations (e.g., emergencies, weather diversions, equipment failures) and must transmit the correct radio calls using standard ICAO phraseology within a strict 15-minute time limit.

• Total Marks: 100
• Passing Marks: 50
• Key Focus: Accuracy, brevity, standard phraseology, and handling emergencies (MAYDAY/PAN PAN).

Part 2: Viva Voce (Oral Interview)

If you pass Part 1, you proceed to Part 2. This is an oral interview conducted by two examiners (one from WPC, one from DGCA). They will test your knowledge on:

• Radio principles and propagation.
• Aircraft radio equipment (VHF, HF, Transponders, ELT).
• Indian and International telecommunication regulations.
• Navigation aids (VOR, ILS, NDB, GPS).

• Total Marks: 100
• Passing Marks: 50

How to Prepare

The key to passing RTR is practice. Ghost Aviator offers the only interactive RTR Simulator in India that allows you to practice transmission calls with voice recognition, preparing you for the pressure of Part 1. For Part 2, study Capt. Pahil's comprehensive notes and question banks available on this platform.