Airband Communication for Drone Operators: What You Need to Know

Airband communication plays a critical role in aviation, including for drone operators working in controlled airspace. Understanding how to use airband radios properly is essential for ensuring safe operations, particularly when communicating with air traffic control (ATC) or other aircraft. At SkyMedia Training, we offer comprehensive training to help drone pilots master this vital skill. Whether through our RePL course (which includes the Aeronautical Radio Operator Certificate (AROC)) or a standalone AROC course, we provide the tools you need to operate confidently and legally.

What Is Airband Communication?

Airband communication refers to the use of very high-frequency (VHF) radios for communication in aviation. It is the primary method for pilots to communicate with:

  • Air Traffic Control (ATC)
  • Other aircraft in the vicinity
  • Ground services

Airband frequencies typically range from 108 MHz to 137 MHz, offering clear and reliable communication. For drone operators, especially those working in controlled airspace, the ability to communicate with ATC is critical for maintaining situational awareness and ensuring safety.

Why Do Drone Operators Need Airband Communication?

1. Operating in Controlled Airspace

Controlled airspace, such as areas near airports, requires strict coordination with ATC. Drone operators must be able to:

  • Notify ATC of their flight plans.
  • Request permissions for take-offs and landings.
  • Respond promptly to any instructions or warnings from ATC.

Without airband communication, drone pilots cannot legally operate in these zones.

2. Ensuring Safety in Shared Airspace

When sharing airspace with manned aircraft, effective communication reduces the risk of collisions. Drone pilots need to be aware of other aircraft in the area and coordinate their movements accordingly.

3. Meeting CASA Requirements

In Australia, the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) mandates that drone operators working in controlled airspace must hold an Aeronautical Radio Operator Certificate (AROC), ensuring they can communicate competently using airband radios.

How to Obtain an Aeronautical Radio Operator Certificate (AROC)

SkyMedia Training offers both:

  • RePL Courses with AROC Certification
  • Standalone AROC Courses

Here’s how the process works:

Step 1: Theoretical Training

The course begins with a deep dive into the fundamentals of airband communication, covering:

  • Radio procedures and terminology
  • Understanding airspace classifications (Class A, C, D, and E)
  • Legal requirements for VHF communication

Step 2: Practical Training

Next, students practice using airband radios in realistic scenarios. This hands-on training ensures they can:

  • Communicate clearly and concisely with ATC.
  • Handle routine and emergency communications effectively.

Step 3: Assessment and Certification

Upon completing the training, students take an assessment to demonstrate their competency. Successful candidates receive the AROC, allowing them to operate drones in controlled airspace legally.

Bundling Airband Radios with Your Training

To further streamline the process, SkyMedia Training offers an exclusive airband radio bundle. When you enrol in our RePL or standalone AROC course, you can purchase an airband radio at a discounted rate. This package ensures you’re fully equipped for real-world drone operations.

Benefits of bundling:

  • Save money by combining training and equipment purchases.
  • Get hands-on practice with the same radios you’ll use in the field.
  • Receive expert guidance on selecting the right radio for your needs.

Contact us today for a custom quote tailored to your training and equipment requirements.

Airband Communication Safety Tips for Drone Operators

To maximise the safety and efficiency of your operations, follow these key tips:

1. Master Standard Phraseology

Using standard aviation terminology ensures clear communication with ATC and other pilots. Phrases like “Roger,” “Wilco,” and “Standby” have specific meanings in aviation and should be used correctly.

2. Perform Pre-Flight Radio Checks

Always check your airband radio before take-off to ensure it’s functioning properly. This includes testing signal strength, verifying frequency settings, and confirming battery levels.

3. Maintain Situational Awareness

Stay alert to all communications on your assigned frequency. Even if a message isn’t directed at you, it may provide valuable information about other aircraft or changing conditions in your area.

4. Be Prepared for Emergencies

In the event of an unexpected issue, such as loss of GPS or mechanical failure, airband communication is your lifeline to ATC. Make sure you’re familiar with emergency procedures and know how to declare an emergency using your radio.

Advanced Applications of Airband Communication

Beyond basic operations, airband communication plays a crucial role in more advanced drone missions:

1. Long-Range Inspections

For infrastructure projects like pipeline or powerline inspections, drones often operate far from the pilot’s visual line of sight. In these scenarios, maintaining radio contact with ATC ensures safe and coordinated operations.

2. Search and Rescue (SAR) Missions

Drones are increasingly used in SAR missions, where communication with ground teams and ATC is essential. Airband radios enable real-time updates, improving the efficiency of these critical operations.

3. Night Flights

Night operations require special approvals, and communication with ATC becomes even more crucial in low-visibility conditions. Pilots rely heavily on airband communication to navigate safely.

Industries That Benefit from Airband Communication

Several industries rely on airband communication for safe and efficient drone operations:

1. Agriculture

In areas near controlled airspace, farmers use drones for crop monitoring, spraying, and irrigation management. Airband communication ensures they can operate legally and safely.

2. Construction and Infrastructure

Drone inspections of bridges, roads, and buildings often occur near restricted zones, requiring constant coordination with ATC.

3. Media and Film Production

Aerial shots for films and commercials frequently require drone operations in urban areas, where airband communication is essential for managing airspace restrictions.

Why Choose SkyMedia Training for Airband Communication?

SkyMedia Training is a leading provider of drone training in Australia, offering:

  • Expert Instruction: Our courses are led by experienced professionals who provide personalised guidance.
  • In-Person Training: We focus on face-to-face instruction, ensuring you gain hands-on experience with airband radios.
  • Custom Packages: From standalone AROC courses to bundled training and radio packages, we offer flexible solutions to meet your needs.

By choosing SkyMedia, you’ll not only gain the skills needed to communicate effectively but also receive the certifications required to operate legally and safely in controlled airspace.

Conclusion

Airband communication is a critical skill for any drone operator working in controlled airspace. Whether you’re just starting your drone career or expanding your capabilities, SkyMedia Training offers the comprehensive training and equipment you need.

Contact us today to learn more about our AROC courses and exclusive airband radio bundles. Take the first step towards becoming a certified, confident drone pilot.