A radio is not required but is strongly advised. It is necessary to have a radio to talk to Air Traffic Control.
8.33kHz Channel spacing
All radios need to be 8.33kHz compliant by 31st December 2017 and comes into force on 1st Jan 2019. However a derogation applies in Ireland allowing continued use of 25kHz radios:
- Irish Registered aircraft
- Remain in un-controlled airspace (Class G) in Ireland
- Any new or replacement radions must be 8.33kHz compliant
- Derogation may be cancelled at some point in the future.
Flying in UK Airspace including Northern Ireland
From 1st jan 2019, only 8.33kHz channels may be used. Common frequencies become:
- 129.900 becomes 129.905
- 129.975 becomes 129.980
- 130.100 becomes 130.105
- 130.125 becomes 130.130
- 130.400 becomes 130.405
See BGA Web site for more details
Licences
All radios must have a licence issued by ComReg. The system is now entirely handled on line. Only radios that comply with ETSO/JTSO standards will be issued licences. Some older crystal radios do not meet this standard.
Log on to the eLicencing website: https://www.elicensing.comreg.ie/ to register, apply or modify a licence.
Fees: 100 euro for a new licence, 30 euro for amendments. (2018)