Flight RulesCommunications

Universal Communications (UNICOM)

Universal Communications (UNICOM) is a non-ATS communications service provided to enhance the value of information normally available about a non-controlled aerodrome. It can provide information such as weather, traffic, and fuel availability. UNICOM is an advisory service only, and use of the information provided remains at the pilot's discretion.

Key Points

  • •Participation in UNICOM must not inhibit the transmission of standard positional broadcasts by pilots.
  • •Operators are solely responsible for the accuracy of information passed, but use of that information is at the pilot's discretion.
  • •Weather reports cannot be provided by UNICOM operators unless properly authorised under CAR 120.

Exam Relevance

Knowing the difference between UNICOM and other aerodrome radio services is a common area of testing for non-controlled aerodrome operations.

Related Terms

common traffic advisory frequencycertified air ground radio service

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Universal Communications (UNICOM) | The Pilot Exam