UNICOM

UNICOM is a common aeronautical advisory frequency used at uncontrolled aerodromes to allow pilots to communicate with ground-based operators (typically an FBO or airport operator) for information such as wind, active runway, fuel availability, and aircraft servicing. UNICOM is not ATC and does not provide traffic separation.

UNICOM Frequencies

In Canada, UNICOM frequencies are published in the CFS for each aerodrome. Common frequencies are 122.800 MHz (shared with many aerodromes) and 123.000 MHz. UNICOM may also serve as the ATF at some locations — check the CFS for the specific aerodrome.

UNICOM vs. ATF

ATF (Aerodrome Traffic Frequency) is specifically designated for traffic announcements and is mandatory. UNICOM may be an advisory frequency at the same aerodrome, used to contact the operator, rather than for mandatory traffic calls. Some aerodromes use a single frequency for both functions — check the CFS designation.

Related Terms

See also: ATF, MF, Aerodrome.