UK Airband Frequencies: A Guide for Airfields, Flying Clubs and Listeners
Every conversation between a pilot and a tower, from a busy international airport to a grass strip in the countryside, happens on the VHF airband. For airfields, flying clubs, ground handlers and the many people who follow aviation as a hobby, understanding how the band works is the first step to choosing the right antenna.
The UK Airband at a Glance
- Frequency range: 118 to 137 MHz for civil voice communications
- Modulation: AM (amplitude modulation), unlike most other VHF services which use FM
- Channel spacing: 8.33 kHz, which the UK adopted to fit more channels into a crowded band
- Emergency frequency: 121.500 MHz, monitored for aircraft in distress
Because the band uses AM, an ordinary FM scanner setting will not decode it properly. Equipment must support AM and, for modern frequency assignments, 8.33 kHz spacing.
Finding UK Airband Frequencies
Frequencies for UK aerodromes, approach services and information services are published in the UK Aeronautical Information Publication (AIP), maintained by NATS. Airfields also list their own frequencies, often for tower, approach, ground and an automated information service (ATIS). Always use the current published source, as assignments change.
Listening Legally
Airband listening is a popular hobby in the UK, and airband scanners are widely sold. Be aware that the Wireless Telegraphy Act 2006 makes it an offence to deliberately listen to transmissions you are not authorised to receive, or to share what you hear. Anyone transmitting on the airband needs the appropriate licences and approvals.
Antennas for Airfields and Ground Stations
An aerodrome or flying club radio station needs an Ofcom licence and CAA approval, and the antenna is a key part of a compliant, reliable installation. Points to consider:
- Vertical polarisation to match aircraft antennas
- An omnidirectional pattern so aircraft are covered in every direction around the field
- Height and clearance from buildings, hangars and other antennas
- Tuning to 118 to 137 MHz, as antennas cut for marine or PMR VHF will not perform well on airband
The VHF73AIR is a 3 dB VHF fibreglass antenna, 1.44 m long, with an N-female connector, intended for air-band use. Pair it with a universal mast mount for a clean installation. Our team can confirm the right variant and mounting for your site.
Not sure whether you need an omni or directional design? See omnidirectional vs directional antennas.
Planning an airfield or club radio installation? Talk to our team: renair.co.uk/contact-us.
Frequently Asked Questions
What frequency range is the UK airband?
Civil aviation voice communications use 118 to 137 MHz, with AM modulation.
What is 8.33 kHz channel spacing?
It divides the airband into narrower channels than the older 25 kHz spacing, fitting more frequencies into the same band. UK aviation radios must support it.
Can I use a marine VHF antenna for airband?
It is not recommended. Marine antennas are tuned for 156 to 162 MHz and will perform poorly at 118 to 137 MHz.
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UK Airband Frequencies: A Guide for Airfields, Flying Clubs and Listeners
How the UK aviation VHF airband works, from 118 to 137 MHz and 8.33 kHz channel spacing to the emergency frequency, plus how to choose an airband antenna for an airfield or ground station.
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