Challenges and needs in English communication development among air cadets in Thailand

English is essential for many aspects of life, including business, education, and international relations. However, Thai air cadets may encounter language barriers during academic and training hours. In order to overcome language difficulties and improve English communication, air cadets need to learn and improve their English language skills in order to be prepared to accomplish a mission. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to investigate the challenges and needs in English communication development among air cadets and to explore their requirements in regard to improving their English in two areas: listening and speaking. A total of 84 participants were classified and randomly selected to respond to a questionnaire. The participants were 5th-year undergraduates with various fields of study, namely Aeronautical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Industrial & Aviation Management, Computer Science, and Military and Aerospace Materials Science. The data collected from the respondents were analyzed using descriptive statistics: means, standard deviations and percentages. The findings of current study revealed that the majority of air cadets encountered personal challenges about communicating complex content fluently when speaking with foreign armed forces, and they viewed that the academy needs to provide specialists to give them some advice on improving their English communication skills. Additionally, the results illustrated that most respondents need to enhance speaking abilities to effectively communicate in English-language presentations, and they also need support from the academy to participate in conferences, seminars, or training programs in English overseas.