Aircraft Radio Communications - A Guide from SFT Head of Operations, Peter Edwards

Back when I was a member at my local flying club, around 80% of our runway incursion reports were due to radio confusion and uncertainty about audio panel operation. Years later, these issues still persist - but they're easily preventable with the right approach.

Pre-Flight Radio Setup

Let me walk you through the essentials of setting up and using your aircraft's radio systems. Before each flight, this methodical process will help ensure clear communication and reduce the chance of errors.

First, get comfortable in your seat with your headset on. Turn on both master and avionics switches, then listen to the ATIS on both Com1 and Com2. This simple step lets you properly set the listening and transmit volumes on both radios.

For dual flights or passengers, this is the perfect time to adjust the intercom (ICS). The ICS controls communication between you and others in the aircraft, using both volume and squelch controls. For the squelch, start with the knob fully left, rotate right until you hear the hissing noise, then back it off slightly. With your microphone positioned upright and close to your lips, set your volume. Remember that newer aircraft typically combine the audio panel and ICS into one unit, while older aircraft might have them separated. Once you're set, turn the avionics switch off until after start-up.

After Engine Start

After engine start, you might need to bump up the volume a bit to compensate for engine noise - though this is less necessary with noise-cancelling headsets. My personal protocol is to handle about 95% of communication through Com1.

Typical aircraft radio communications setup

A Typical Flight Example

Let's say you're departing Bankstown. Your Com1 would progress through several frequencies:

- BK ground - BK tower - SY centre - Area (Brisbane or Melbourne centre)

Meanwhile, Com2 handles ATIS/AWIS and CTAF. For a flight to Cessnock, your Com2 would be set up with:

- BK ATIS (120.9)

- CNK AWIS (134.050)

- CNK CTAF (122.65)

When you're 30nm out, monitor CTAF and make your inbound call about 8 minutes from arrival. One crucial tip: focus on one radio at a time - trying to juggle both while transmitting is asking for trouble.

Working With Different Systems

The radio equipment you'll encounter will vary, and it's important to understand the basics of each system. The PS1000 ICS is purely an intercom system with volume, squelch, and crew or pilot isolation controls.

If you're operating an aircraft with the Garmin 430, you'll be using a multi-purpose Nav/Com unit that combines GPS navigation with radio functions - all selected through the audio panel.

The Garmin 225 is another common radio you'll find, known for being easy to read and adjust.

A point to note, that while our C152 KKB operates primarily with a single radio, it has dual-frequency monitoring capability - a feature that requires clear understanding before use.

The bottom line? Take time to get to know your radio equipment before you set off. These simple steps and habits can make a significant difference in your flying safety and confidence.