Phonetic Alphabet Chart
Spell any name, code or email clearly with the NATO phonetic alphabet chart. Type below to translate, or tap a letter to learn its code word, pronunciation and Morse.
The NATO Phonetic Alphabet Chart From A to Z
This phonetic alphabet chart lists all 26 code words used by pilots, soldiers, police, sailors and call centers. Each tile shows the letter, the official code word, the stressed pronunciation and the Morse code. Tap any tile to open a full guide for that letter.
Official spelling: ICAO writes A as Alfa and J as Juliett. You will often see Alpha and Juliet in English, and both are understood.
Numbers on the Phonetic Alphabet Chart
Radio operators also say digits in a set way. Most numbers sound normal, but a few change so they cannot be confused. For example, three becomes tree and nine becomes niner.
| Digit | Say it | Digit | Say it |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 | ZE-RO | 5 | FIFE |
| 1 | WUN | 6 | SIX |
| 2 | TOO | 7 | SEV-EN |
| 3 | TREE | 8 | AIT |
| 4 | FOW-ER | 9 | NIN-ER |
Learn the reasons behind each change in our guide to phonetic alphabet numbers.
What Is the Phonetic Alphabet?
The phonetic alphabet is a spelling code. Instead of saying letters that sound alike, such as B, D, P and V, you say a whole word for each one. As a result, the listener hears “Bravo” or “Delta” and knows exactly which letter you mean.
The version on this phonetic alphabet chart is the international radiotelephony spelling alphabet. The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) published it, and NATO and the International Telecommunication Union use the same words. That is why you may hear it called the NATO alphabet, the ICAO alphabet or simply the military alphabet.
How to Use This Phonetic Alphabet Chart
- Say the letter’s code word, not the letter itself. For example, spell “Kim” as Kilo, India, Mike.
- Pause briefly between words, so each one stands apart.
- Read numbers digit by digit, using the radio forms when the line is poor.
- Use the phonetic alphabet translator above for long codes, emails and booking references.
- Practice with the phonetic alphabet quiz until the words come without thinking.
Want a copy for your desk? Download the printable phonetic alphabet chart and keep it next to your phone.
Who Uses the Phonetic Alphabet?
Pilots and air traffic controllers use it for call signs, runways and taxiways. Similarly, armed forces use it on every radio net, and many police and dispatch teams use it on the air. In addition, call centers, airlines, banks and help desks rely on it to confirm names and account codes over the phone.
Some groups have their own variations. For instance, many US police agencies still use the older APCO words such as Adam, Boy and Charles. You can compare them in our police phonetic alphabet guide.
Explore Every Chart and Guide
Phonetic Alphabet vs the International Phonetic Alphabet
The names sound alike, but these are two different tools. The NATO phonetic alphabet spells letters with code words. However, the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) uses special symbols to write the sounds of speech, such as /ʃ/ for the “sh” in ship.
Language learners, teachers and linguists use the IPA to show exact pronunciation. If that is what you need, start with our IPA chart or the guide to English IPA sounds.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the phonetic alphabet chart?
It is a table that pairs each letter with a code word, from Alfa for A to Zulu for Z. People read the code words aloud so letters are not misheard on phones and radios.
Is the NATO alphabet the same as the military alphabet?
Yes. The military alphabet, the NATO alphabet and the ICAO alphabet are the same list of 26 words. Different groups simply use different names for it.
Why is A spelled Alfa and not Alpha?
ICAO spells it Alfa so speakers of other languages say the f sound correctly. Juliett gets a double t for a similar reason. Alpha and Juliet are common English spellings.
How do you say numbers in the phonetic alphabet?
Radio users say most digits normally but change a few. For example, 3 is tree, 5 is fife and 9 is niner, which keeps them distinct over noisy channels.
Is the phonetic alphabet the same as the IPA?
No. The NATO phonetic alphabet is a spelling code for letters. The International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) is a set of symbols that linguists use to write speech sounds.