UNICOM Frequency: Pilot's Guide to Aviation Radio

For pilots navigating the skies, effective communication is paramount, especially when approaching non-towered airports where direct interaction with Air Traffic Control is unavailable. UNICOM, a vital communication service, serves as the primary frequency for these airports, enabling pilots to broadcast their intentions and coordinate with other aircraft or ground personnel. The Aeronautical Information Manual (AIM) provides comprehensive guidelines on the proper use of UNICOM frequency for self-announcing positions and intentions, ensuring a safe and orderly flow of traffic. Ground personnel, often operating from a Fixed Base Operator (FBO), can also provide essential information such as fuel prices, weather conditions, and airport services via the UNICOM frequency. The effective use of a handheld radio is a crucial tool that enables pilots to maintain situational awareness and communicate effectively using the designated unicom frequency, contributing significantly to overall flight safety.

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Navigating the skies is a complex endeavor, and clear communication is the cornerstone of safe and efficient flight operations. At airports without the constant guidance of an air traffic control tower—known as uncontrolled or non-towered airports—this reliance on effective communication becomes even more paramount.

This is where UNICOM steps in.

What is UNICOM?

UNICOM, short for Universal Communications, serves as the primary communication system at uncontrolled airports. Think of it as the central nervous system for coordinating activities when there isn't an operating control tower present.

UNICOM Defined

More precisely, UNICOM is a ground-based radio communication service used to provide essential airport information and advisory services to pilots. It's a lifeline, connecting pilots with ground personnel and facilitating self-coordination among pilots in the vicinity.

Why UNICOM Matters

In the absence of an air traffic controller directing traffic, UNICOM is vital. It empowers pilots to broadcast their intentions, receive critical airport information, and coordinate movements with other aircraft and ground vehicles. This collaborative communication is what helps maintain order and safety.

The Importance of Effective UNICOM Communication

Why is effective UNICOM communication so critical? The answer boils down to safety, situational awareness, and operational efficiency.

Enhancing Safety

By clearly communicating their position and intentions, pilots enable others to anticipate their actions. This shared awareness minimizes the risk of misunderstandings and potential conflicts, directly contributing to a safer operating environment.

UNICOM broadcasts allow pilots to build a mental picture of the airport environment. They can hear the position reports of other aircraft, understand runway conditions, and anticipate potential traffic conflicts. This heightened situational awareness allows pilots to make well-informed decisions throughout their flight.

UNICOM isn't just for pilots in the air. It also plays a crucial role in coordinating ground operations.

Ground personnel can use UNICOM to communicate with pilots about parking availability, fuel requests, and other essential services, leading to smoother and more efficient operations on the ground.

To fully appreciate UNICOM's role, we need to understand the nature of uncontrolled airports.

These airports lack an operating air traffic control tower. Instead of receiving direct instructions from controllers, pilots rely on self-announce procedures and UNICOM to communicate their intentions and coordinate with other traffic.

Uncontrolled airports are extremely common, especially in general aviation. They provide vital access points for smaller aircraft and are essential for connecting communities and supporting various aviation activities. Therefore, knowing how to effectively operate at these airports is fundamental for all pilots.

Essential Equipment and Frequencies for UNICOM

Navigating the skies is a complex endeavor, and clear communication is the cornerstone of safe and efficient flight operations. At airports without the constant guidance of an air traffic control tower—known as uncontrolled or non-towered airports—this reliance on effective communication becomes even more paramount. This is where UNICOM steps in.

But what tools are absolutely essential to participating in effective UNICOM communication?

Let's dive into the core equipment and knowledge needed to confidently and safely use UNICOM. Understanding these elements is key to operating smoothly at non-towered airports.

VHF (Very High Frequency) Radio: The Foundation of UNICOM

The Very High Frequency (VHF) radio is the cornerstone of aviation communication, including UNICOM operations. It’s the standard method pilots use to transmit and receive vital information.

Why VHF? Its frequency range is ideal for aviation due to its relatively long range and resistance to interference.

The designated aviation VHF frequency range spans from 118.000 MHz to 136.975 MHz. This slice of the spectrum is carefully managed to ensure clear and consistent communication between pilots, ground personnel, and other aircraft.

Always ensure your radio is properly tuned to the correct frequency for the airport you’re operating at, which you can find in your Airport/Facility Directory.

Radio Transceivers: The Heart of Communication

Within your aircraft, the radio transceiver is the device that makes two-way communication possible. Think of it as your voice and ears in the cockpit.

Understanding Transceivers

A transceiver combines both a transmitter and a receiver into a single unit. The transmitter sends your voice out over the airwaves, while the receiver picks up incoming signals from other radios.

Modern aircraft radios are sophisticated, allowing for clear communication even in noisy environments. They’re designed to be user-friendly, but it's important to be familiar with all of their functions.

A properly functioning transceiver is non-negotiable for safe flight operations, so ensure yours is well-maintained and tested before each flight.

Antennas: Reaching Out and Listening In

The antenna is the unsung hero of your communication system. It's the component that actually radiates the radio signal from your transmitter and captures incoming signals for your receiver.

Types and Placement

Antennas come in various shapes and sizes, each designed for specific purposes. The placement of the antenna on your aircraft is also critical. A poorly placed or damaged antenna can significantly reduce your radio's range and clarity.

Signal Strength and Clarity

Signal strength is directly related to the antenna's performance. A clean, unobstructed signal path is essential for clear communication. Always inspect your antenna before each flight to ensure it's in good condition.

Think of your antenna as your radio's connection to the world. Taking care of it will ensure your messages are heard loud and clear.

Airport Directory/Chart Supplement: Your Frequency Guide

The Airport Directory, often referred to as the Chart Supplement, is an indispensable resource for pilots. It contains a wealth of information about airports, including their UNICOM frequencies.

Finding the Right Frequency

The Chart Supplement lists the specific UNICOM frequency for each airport that has one. This is crucial because using the wrong frequency means you won't be able to communicate with anyone at the airport, potentially leading to unsafe situations.

How to Use the Directory

The directory is organized alphabetically by state and then by city. Once you find the airport you're interested in, look for the "UNICOM" listing. This will provide the correct frequency to use.

Always double-check the frequency before transmitting. With the right frequency in hand, you can confidently and safely communicate your intentions and gather important information at non-towered airports.

The information contained in the Airport Directory/Chart Supplement is essential for pilots to use when communicating at uncontrolled airports. Always ensure you review the frequencies needed before departing on each flight to maintain currency and accuracy.

Key Players and Their Roles in UNICOM Operations

Effective communication at uncontrolled airports hinges on the collaboration and clear understanding of roles among various key individuals. Let's explore the specific contributions of pilots, Fixed Base Operators (FBOs), airport managers, line service technicians, Flight Service Stations (FSS), and flight instructors in maintaining safe and efficient UNICOM operations.

Pilots: The Primary UNICOM Users

Pilots are the most frequent users of UNICOM, acting as the eyes and ears in the sky. They rely on UNICOM for self-announcements and for gathering crucial information about airport conditions.

Their responsibilities are multifaceted. They include:

• Reporting their position.
• Stating their intentions.
• Requesting advisory services from the FBO or other available resources.

By providing clear and concise position reports and intentions, pilots create a shared awareness among all users of the airport environment.

This is important for avoiding conflicts and ensuring a smooth flow of traffic.

Fixed Base Operators (FBOs): The Ground Support

FBOs play a vital role in supporting pilots at uncontrolled airports. They often provide UNICOM services, managing radio communications for a variety of purposes.

These include:

• Fuel requests.
• Aircraft services.
• General information.

FBOs act as a relay for essential information, coordinating services and ground operations to meet the needs of pilots. Their presence and attentiveness on the radio are invaluable for maintaining situational awareness on the ground.

Airport Managers/Operators: Ensuring UNICOM Functionality

Airport managers and operators are responsible for the overall management and maintenance of the airport, including its UNICOM services.

Their primary duties involve:

• Ensuring the UNICOM equipment is functional.
• Managing airport operations.
• Disseminating essential information to pilots.

They play a crucial role in upholding safety standards and facilitating smooth operations at the airport. By actively monitoring UNICOM, airport managers can provide timely updates on runway conditions, NOTAMs (Notices to Airmen), and any other relevant information affecting flight operations.

Line Service Technicians (Line Crew): Coordinating Ground Handling

Line service technicians, often referred to as the line crew, are essential for ground handling tasks. They utilize UNICOM to coordinate various activities, including:

• Aircraft parking.
• Fueling operations.
• Towing.

Their effective use of UNICOM ensures seamless coordination on the ramp, which is critical for avoiding ground incidents and maintaining efficiency.

Flight Service Stations (FSS): Providing Remote Advisory Services

Flight Service Stations (FSS) serve as a remote information resource for pilots, offering advisory services and relaying information even when not physically located at the airport.

FSS specialists can provide:

• Weather updates.
• NOTAMs.
• Traffic advisories.

While they don't typically manage ground traffic at uncontrolled airports, their ability to offer remote assistance is a valuable supplement to local UNICOM communications, especially in areas with limited ground-based support.

Flight Instructors: Educating Future Pilots

Flight instructors play a critical role in shaping the next generation of pilots.

They are responsible for:

• Teaching pilots how to properly use UNICOM.
• Emphasizing the importance of clear and concise communication.
• Instilling best practices in radio etiquette.

By emphasizing the correct use of UNICOM early in a pilot's training, instructors contribute to safer and more efficient operations at uncontrolled airports. They help cultivate a culture of communication excellence that extends throughout a pilot's career.

In summary, the effectiveness of UNICOM operations relies on the collective responsibility and coordinated efforts of all these key players. Clear communication, adherence to procedures, and a mutual understanding of roles are all essential components of a safe and efficient aviation environment at uncontrolled airports.

Communication Procedures and Best Practices on UNICOM

Effective communication at uncontrolled airports hinges on the collaboration and clear understanding of roles among various key individuals. Mastering communication procedures and adopting best practices on UNICOM is paramount for pilots operating at uncontrolled airports. This ensures safety, efficiency, and a shared awareness of the surrounding traffic. Let’s delve into the specifics of radio phraseology, self-announce procedures, radio etiquette, and the appropriate times to utilize the Common Traffic Advisory Frequency (CTAF).

Aviation Radiotelephony: The Language of the Skies

Standardized radio phraseology, often referred to as aviation radiotelephony, forms the backbone of clear and concise communication in the aviation world. It is the language that pilots and ground personnel use to convey critical information efficiently. Think of it as a shared vocabulary that minimizes ambiguity and reduces the potential for misunderstandings.

Essential Phrases

Familiarizing yourself with common aviation phrases is crucial. Examples include:

• "Any traffic in the area, please advise," used to solicit information about other aircraft operating nearby.

• "Departing runway [number]," which informs others of your departure intentions.

• "Entering downwind for runway [number]," used to announce your position in the landing pattern.

• “Short final runway [number],” which indicates that you are close to the runway and expect to land.

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• “Taxiing to parking,” which is used to indicate that you are clear of the active runway.

By using these established phrases, you contribute to a safer and more predictable operating environment.

Self-Announce Procedures: Making Your Presence Known

At uncontrolled airports, pilots must take on the responsibility of broadcasting their intentions and positions on the CTAF. This self-announcement procedure is the primary means of maintaining situational awareness and preventing potential conflicts.

The Importance of Initial Calls

Your initial call to CTAF establishes your presence and intentions. This call should include your aircraft's call sign, location, and intended actions. For example: "Cessna 123AB, ten miles east, inbound for landing runway 27."

Position Reports: Keeping Others Informed

As you maneuver within the vicinity of the airport, provide regular position reports on CTAF. Key positions to report include:

• Entering the downwind leg.

• Turning base.

• On final approach.

• Departing the runway.

These reports allow other pilots to anticipate your movements and adjust their own flight paths accordingly.

Announcing Your Intentions

Clearly state your intentions when arriving, departing, or taxiing at the airport. This helps other pilots and ground personnel understand your plans and avoid potential conflicts. Be specific and concise in your announcements.

Communication Procedures: Etiquette and Technique

Effective communication goes beyond simply knowing the right phrases. It involves using proper radio etiquette and techniques to ensure your message is heard and understood.

Clarity, Brevity, Accuracy

The core principles of good radio communication are clarity, brevity, and accuracy. Speak clearly and at a moderate pace. Keep your transmissions concise and to the point, avoiding unnecessary chatter. Ensure that the information you provide is accurate and up-to-date.

Avoiding Jargon and Slang

While aviation has its own language, avoid using excessive jargon or slang that may not be understood by all pilots. Stick to standard terminology and phraseology.

When to Utilize CTAF Effectively

Knowing when to transmit on the CTAF is as important as knowing what to say. Overuse can lead to frequency congestion, while underuse can compromise safety.

Reporting Position

Report your position whenever you are entering a critical phase of flight, such as entering the downwind, base, or final approach legs of the landing pattern.

Stating Intentions

Clearly state your intentions whenever you are planning a maneuver, such as landing or departing from the airport.

Monitoring Before Maneuvering

Before making any maneuver, it is essential to monitor the CTAF to gain an understanding of other traffic in the area. This allows you to anticipate potential conflicts and make informed decisions.

Utilizing Auxiliary Services at Uncontrolled Airports

Effective communication at uncontrolled airports hinges on the collaboration and clear understanding of roles among various key individuals. Mastering communication procedures and adopting best practices on UNICOM is paramount for pilots operating at uncontrolled airports. This ensures safety, efficiency, and situational awareness, but it's not the whole story.

To further enhance these aspects, pilots must take full advantage of available auxiliary services. These tools, such as ATIS and AWOS/ASOS, significantly contribute to reducing radio congestion and providing critical real-time information.

Let's delve into how these systems function and why incorporating them into your pre-flight and in-flight routines is so beneficial.

Understanding ATIS (Automatic Terminal Information Service)

ATIS, or Automatic Terminal Information Service, is an automated broadcast of essential airport information. Think of it as a pre-recorded message providing a snapshot of current conditions.

Its primary purpose is to alleviate radio congestion. By tuning into the ATIS frequency before contacting UNICOM, you can gather pertinent details regarding:

• Weather conditions (temperature, wind, visibility, ceiling)
• Active runways
• Notices to Airmen (NOTAMs)
• Other pertinent information

ATIS Benefits: Reducing Radio Congestion

The real beauty of ATIS lies in its ability to streamline communications. Imagine every pilot needing to ask for the same basic information. Radio frequencies would quickly become overwhelmed.

By listening to ATIS first, pilots gain situational awareness. This allows for concise and focused communication with UNICOM operators, significantly reducing frequency congestion.

It is vital to identify the ATIS phonetic identifier (e.g., Information Alpha, Bravo, Charlie). At initial contact with UNICOM, indicate that you have received the current ATIS information to confirm you are up-to-date.

AWOS/ASOS: Your Real-Time Weather Window

AWOS (Automated Weather Observing System) and ASOS (Automated Surface Observing System) are sophisticated automated weather stations. These systems provide continuous, real-time weather reports directly from the airfield.

While ATIS provides a general overview, AWOS/ASOS offers granular data. The data includes wind speed and direction, temperature, dew point, visibility, cloud cover, and precipitation.

Why AWOS/ASOS Matters: Informed Decision-Making

Access to up-to-the-minute weather information is critical for flight safety. AWOS/ASOS data enables pilots to:

• Assess current conditions for take-off and landing.
• Identify potential hazards such as wind shear or low visibility.
• Make informed decisions regarding flight planning and execution.

It's a good practice to cross-reference AWOS/ASOS data with ATIS (if available) and pilot reports (PIREPs). This helps to form a comprehensive understanding of the current and anticipated weather conditions.

Keep in mind that these systems are automated. It's crucial to remain vigilant and use all available resources to assess the overall weather picture.

Harnessing the power of auxiliary services like ATIS and AWOS/ASOS isn't just a good practice; it's a cornerstone of safe and efficient operations at uncontrolled airports. Embrace these tools, stay informed, and fly safely!

Resources and Tools for Effective UNICOM Usage

Utilizing Auxiliary Services at Uncontrolled Airports Effective communication at uncontrolled airports hinges on the collaboration and clear understanding of roles among various key individuals. Mastering communication procedures and adopting best practices on UNICOM is paramount for pilots operating at uncontrolled airports. This ensures safety, efficiency, and a shared understanding of the operational environment. Expanding your resources with specialized tools will allow pilots to communicate confidently and competently at any uncontrolled field.

Fortunately, pilots have a wealth of resources available to enhance their UNICOM communication skills and situational awareness. Let's explore some essential tools that will help you master UNICOM procedures and improve your operational effectiveness.

Aeronautical Charts: Your Visual Guide

Aeronautical charts are indispensable tools for pilots, providing a visual representation of critical airport information. These charts, including VFR Sectional Charts, offer a wealth of data essential for safe and efficient flight operations.

They prominently display airport layouts and, importantly, the designated UNICOM frequencies for each airport. This allows pilots to quickly identify the correct frequency for communication upon approaching or departing an uncontrolled airfield. Always consult the most current chart to ensure you are using the correct and up-to-date information.

The Aeronautical Information Manual (AIM): The Pilot's Bible

The Aeronautical Information Manual (AIM) is an official FAA publication that serves as a comprehensive guide for pilots. It's filled with essential information regarding procedures, regulations, and best practices for aviation operations.

Within the AIM, you'll find detailed explanations of radio communication procedures, standard phraseology, and techniques for effective communication. Take the time to thoroughly review the sections related to radio communication and UNICOM procedures. This knowledge will significantly enhance your ability to communicate clearly and concisely. The FAA releases updates to the AIM so be sure to check for the latest publication and note any changes.

Flight Planning Software: Integrating UNICOM Information

In today's technologically advanced aviation environment, flight planning software has become an indispensable tool for pilots. Popular programs like ForeFlight and Garmin Pilot offer a wide range of features.

These apps often integrate airport information, including UNICOM frequencies, directly into their interfaces. This allows pilots to easily access the necessary communication frequencies during flight planning and in-flight operations. Take the time to familiarize yourself with the features of your flight planning software and how it displays UNICOM information.

Online Airport Directories: A Wealth of Information at Your Fingertips

Online airport directories such as AirNav and FlightAware serve as valuable resources for pilots seeking detailed information about airports. These directories offer comprehensive airport data.

This data includes not only UNICOM frequencies but also airport diagrams, runway information, services available, and contact details. Consider using these online directories during pre-flight planning to gather all the necessary information about your destination airport. They provide a convenient way to access a wealth of information that will enhance your situational awareness.

By leveraging these resources and tools, pilots can significantly improve their UNICOM communication skills and enhance their overall operational effectiveness at uncontrolled airports. Remember, clear and concise communication is paramount for safety in aviation. Make the most of the resources available to you and continuously strive to improve your communication skills.

Potential Issues and Solutions in UNICOM Communication

Effective communication at uncontrolled airports hinges on the collaboration and clear understanding of roles among various key individuals. Mastering communication procedures and adopting best practices on UNICOM is paramount for pilots operating at non-towered fields. While UNICOM is a vital tool, potential issues like frequency congestion and blind transmissions can arise, impacting safety and efficiency. Let’s explore these challenges and practical solutions to ensure smooth operations.

Frequency Congestion: Navigating a Crowded Airwave

Frequency congestion occurs when numerous users attempt to communicate simultaneously on the same UNICOM frequency. This can lead to garbled transmissions, missed calls, and increased difficulty in relaying critical information. The result is a frustrating situation for everyone involved, potentially creating misunderstandings and increasing the risk of incidents.

Prioritizing Essential Communications

The key to managing congestion lies in prioritization. Before keying the mic, consider the urgency and necessity of your message. Is it a routine request that could wait, or is it critical information that requires immediate attention? Prioritize essential communications such as position reports, intentions, and requests for urgent services like medical assistance.

Employing Proper Radio Etiquette

Radio etiquette plays a significant role in minimizing congestion. Listen before you transmit to ensure the frequency is clear. Avoid unnecessary chatter and refrain from transmitting personal conversations. Be courteous and professional, always identifying yourself and the airport you are operating at.

Brevity is Key

Brevity is your friend. Keep your transmissions concise and to the point. Plan what you want to say before keying the microphone, and avoid rambling or providing extraneous details. Use standard aviation phraseology to convey your message effectively and efficiently.

Blind Transmissions: Reducing Uncertainty in the Air

Blind transmissions occur when a pilot transmits without knowing if anyone is listening or within range. This can be problematic, as it may lead to duplicate calls, confusion, and a general lack of situational awareness.

Announcing Intentions Clearly

Begin your transmission by clearly announcing your intentions. For example, if you are approaching an airport, state: "Any traffic in the area, [Airport Name], approaching from the west, inbound for landing." This alerts other pilots to your presence and intentions, allowing them to respond if necessary.

Pausing for Responses

After making your initial call, pause for a few seconds to allow other pilots time to respond. This gives them an opportunity to provide relevant information or acknowledge your transmission. If no one responds, you can proceed with your call, assuming no other traffic is currently using the frequency.

Using the "Any Traffic in the Area, Please Advise" Call

Employing the phrase "Any traffic in the area, please advise" at the start of your transmission is a highly recommended practice. This serves as a general call to alert any nearby aircraft or ground personnel to your presence and intentions. It also provides an opportunity for others to offer valuable information about traffic, weather, or airport conditions.

By being proactive and courteous, we can collectively minimize confusion and enhance safety in uncontrolled airport environments.

Regulatory Oversight and Compliance

Effective communication at uncontrolled airports hinges on the collaboration and clear understanding of roles among various key individuals. Mastering communication procedures and adopting best practices on UNICOM is paramount for pilots operating at non-towered fields. While UNICOM is a vital tool, it operates within a framework of regulations and oversight to ensure safety and standardization.

This section will explore the role of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in governing aviation communications, and the importance of understanding and adhering to these regulations for pilots and other stakeholders.

The FAA's Role in Aviation Communications

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) stands as the cornerstone of aviation safety and regulation within the United States.

As the governing body, the FAA holds the ultimate responsibility for overseeing air traffic management, aircraft certification, and, significantly, aviation communication procedures.

The FAA’s influence extends to every aspect of flight, from pre-flight planning to in-flight communication protocols, ensuring that all participants operate within a clearly defined and safe environment.

Key Regulatory Areas Overseen by the FAA

The FAA's oversight of aviation communications encompasses a broad spectrum of areas, each critical to maintaining safety and efficiency. Some key areas include:

• Frequency Management: The FAA allocates and manages radio frequencies used for aviation communication to minimize interference and ensure clear channels for communication.

  This is particularly important at uncontrolled airports where UNICOM frequencies must be carefully managed.

• Communication Procedures: The FAA establishes standard phraseology and communication procedures that pilots, air traffic controllers, and ground personnel must adhere to.

  This standardization reduces ambiguity and ensures that messages are understood accurately.

• Equipment Standards: The FAA sets standards for communication equipment used in aviation to ensure reliability and performance.

  This includes radios, transceivers, and antennas, all vital for effective UNICOM operations.

• Pilot Training and Certification: The FAA includes communication procedures in pilot training and certification requirements.

  Pilots must demonstrate proficiency in radio communication to obtain and maintain their licenses.

Ensuring Compliance: A Shared Responsibility

While the FAA sets the regulations, ensuring compliance is a shared responsibility among all aviation stakeholders. Pilots, FBOs, and airport operators each have a role to play.

• Pilots: Pilots must be knowledgeable about and adhere to FAA regulations regarding radio communication. This includes using proper phraseology, monitoring frequencies, and reporting any communication difficulties.

• Fixed Base Operators (FBOs): FBOs operating UNICOM services must ensure that their equipment is properly maintained and that their personnel are trained in correct communication procedures.

• Airport Operators: Airport operators are responsible for maintaining UNICOM facilities and ensuring that they operate in accordance with FAA regulations.

Resources for Staying Compliant

Staying informed about FAA regulations and best practices is crucial for all aviation professionals. The FAA provides numerous resources to assist with this:

• Aeronautical Information Manual (AIM): The AIM is a comprehensive guide to aviation procedures and regulations, including detailed information on radio communication. It's a must-read for all pilots.

• Advisory Circulars (ACs): The FAA issues ACs to provide guidance on specific topics, such as radio communication procedures and airport operations.

• FAA Website: The FAA website offers a wealth of information, including regulations, safety alerts, and training materials.

By utilizing these resources and staying informed, pilots and other aviation professionals can ensure that they are operating safely and in compliance with FAA regulations. Always prioritize safety and continuous learning.

Video: UNICOM Frequency: Pilot's Guide to Aviation Radio

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So, next time you're taxiing onto the ramp or planning your arrival at a non-towered field, remember your UNICOM frequency etiquette. A quick, clear call can make all the difference in keeping everyone safe and sound. Happy flying!