AFZ / AZF

AFZ and AZF both refer to the highest-level German radio communication certificate required for certain types of flying within German airspace. These acronyms are used interchangeably:

• AFZ – Allgemeines Funksprechzeugnis
• AZF – Allgemeines Flugfunkzeugnis

The abbreviation may differ depending on the document source (e.g. EASA vs. LBA), but they denote the same qualification.

The AFZ/AZF is mandatory for pilots who:

• Operate flights under Instrument Flight Rules (IFR), or
• Fly in controlled airspace with English-language ATC, or
• Intend to use English phraseology in international or German airspace.

It qualifies the pilot to use both German and English radiotelephony in all airspace classes and for both VFR and IFR operations.

The AZF/AFZ exam covers:

• Advanced radiotelephony procedures
• Phraseology for IFR operations
• Emergency communication
• Route clearances, departure and arrival instructions
• Holding patterns and approach procedures
• Use of English phraseology in controlled airspace

The exam includes:

• A theory section (multiple choice and written questions)
• A practical exam with simulated ATC interactions, often in both English and German

The AFZ/AZF certificate does not expire. However, language proficiency, especially in English, must be revalidated according to ICAO language level requirements (usually every 4 to 6 years, depending on the level achieved).

Holding an AFZ means a pilot is fully certified for all radiotelephony communication required in German and international airspace, including complex IFR scenarios and multilingual operations.