Have you ever been curious about what pilots and air traffic controllers are saying to each other? Well, listening to air traffic control (ATC) on a scanner is definitely a fascinating way to dive into aviation communication and learn more about how to properly communicate with ATC.
Maybe you are a student pilot in training or you just have an interest in aviation. No matter what your goals are, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about how to listen to ATC on a scanner.
SUMMARY
-
You can legally listen to air traffic control transmissions in the U.S. as a civilian.
-
A scanner or receiver with access to aviation frequencies is needed.
-
Understanding ATC lingo and frequencies can enhance your listening experience.
-
Digital apps and websites also provide access to live ATC streams.
What Equipment Do You Need To Listen to ATC?
If you're wanting to listen to air traffic control, you’ll need a scanner or radio scanner capable of receiving Very High Frequency (VHF) signals in the aviation band.
Let's take a look at what kind of equipment you would need:
-
Scanners or Radios
You will need to look for a scanner that supports air frequencies between 118.000 and 136.975 MHz. There are great handheld models, such as the Uniden Bearcat or Icom radios. These are usually the popular choices.
-
Smartphones or Computers
There are fantastic apps like LiveATC.net, they allow you to stream ATC communications from your phone or computer.
It’s a convenient alternative if you don’t want to invest in physical equipment, but want to listen to commercial flights, or hear a takeoff and landing clearance.
You also can easily monitor multiple frequencies with opening browser tabs.
Just keep in mind that there is a delay with LiveATC. According to LiveATC's FAQ, the delay is usually less than 20 seconds for most listeners. The delay is affected by the specific feed and your connection. Some users have reported delays ranging from 10 to 45 seconds.
-
Antenna Setup
A high-quality antenna improves signal reception. Position it in an open area or near a window for the best results.
Once you have your gear or app, tune in to your nearest airport’s ATC frequencies to start listening.
How To Find ATC Frequencies
ATC operates on a wide range of frequencies, but finding the right ones is a lot easier than you think. Follow these steps:
-
Start With Airport Information
Check online resources like the FAA’s Chart Supplement Search, SkyVector, or AirNav to find specific frequencies for your local airport.
-
Understand the Basics
ATC frequencies are divided into sectors, such as Ground, Tower, Approach, and Departure. Knowing which frequency to tune in depends on the type of communication you want to hear.
-
Scan Manually
If your scanner has a search function, you can just scan through the aviation band until you pick up transmissions. This is a great way to discover new frequencies.
-
Monitor Common Frequencies
Many airports use standard frequencies for ATIS (Automated Terminal Information Service) or Ground Control that are easy to find. With small airports or uncontrolled airports you can listen to pilots communicating directly with one another on the Common Traffic Advisory Frequency (CTAF) for the area.
Types of Aviation Communications
When you tune in, you will end up encountering various types of transmissions. Different categories will provide different types of things you can listen to:
-
Airport Traffic and Ground Control
These cover aircraft movements on the ground and in the vicinity of the airport. Busy airports might have separate controllers for north and south operations.
-
En Route Traffic Control
This involves communication between pilots and Air Route Traffic Control Centers (ARTCC) as planes travel cross-country.
-
Air-to-Air Communication
This is informal and used for location coordination and communication, pilots may chat with each other, especially in remote areas.
-
CTAF (Common Traffic Advisory Frequency)
Used at non-towered airports for pilots to announce positions and intentions.
-
Ground Operations
These include communication with services like fueling, de-icing, and maintenance vehicles.
Each one of these categories has dedicated frequencies, and larger airports may have multiple channels for each function.
AWOS, ASOS, and ATIS Frequencies
To fully appreciate aviation communications, it’s helpful to listen to automated weather and operational updates. Here’s a quick overview of these systems:
-
AWOS (Automated Weather Observing System)
AWOS provides continuous weather updates, including temperature, wind speed and direction, barometric pressure, and visibility. These systems are typically found at smaller airports and are used for pilots planning their approaches.
-
ASOS (Automated Surface Observing System)
ASOS reports similar weather data as AWOS but with additional information like sky conditions and precipitation type. It’s often used at larger airports and integrates with National Weather Service systems.
-
ATIS (Automated Terminal Information Service)
ATIS broadcasts recorded updates about local weather, runway conditions, and other relevant information. Pilots tune in to ATIS before contacting ground or tower controllers. The updates are assigned a letter code (like “Information Alpha”) to confirm that pilots have the latest information.
You can find these frequencies on airport charts or online resources.
|
Icom IC-A120 - VHF Air Band Transceiver - Base StationBoost your communication efficiency with the feature-rich Icom IC-A120, designed for flight operations. 
|
Tips for Listening
Listening to ATC can be a great teaching tool for student pilots and for those training to become air traffic controllers. Here are some tips to get the most out of your experience:
-
Learn the Lingo
Familiarize yourself with common ATC phrases and terminology. Here are some:
Phraseology
Meaning
Cleared for Takeoff
Authorization to depart the runway.
Hold Short
Instruction to stop before reaching a specific point, such as a runway.
Cleared to Land
Authorization to land on the specified runway.
Go Around
Abort landing and prepare to reattempt or follow ATC instructions.
Line Up and Wait
Taxi onto the runway and hold position for further clearance.
Squawk XXXX
Set the transponder to the specified four-digit code.
Descend and Maintain
Begin descent to the assigned altitude and maintain it.
Climb and Maintain
Ascend to the assigned altitude and maintain it.
Roger
Acknowledgment of received transmission.
Stand By
Wait for further instructions; no need to respond.
Traffic in Sight
The pilot has visually identified the mentioned aircraft.
Unable
Unable to comply with the instruction due to operational limitations.
Wilco
"Will comply" with the received instruction.
Contact [Facility Name]
Switch radio frequency to the specified facility (e.g., Tower or Approach).
The FAA provides a great resource for radio communication phraseology.
-
Categories of ATC Communication
When you tune in, you’ll encounter various types of transmissions.:
-
Airport Traffic and Ground Control: These cover aircraft movements on the ground and in the vicinity of the airport. Busy airports might have separate controllers for north and south operations.
-
En Route Traffic Control: This involves communication between pilots and Air Route Traffic Control Centers (ARTCC) as planes travel cross-country.
-
Air-to-Air Communication: Often informal and used for coordination, pilots may chat with each other, especially in remote areas.
-
Ground Operations: These include communication with services like fueling, de-icing, and maintenance vehicles. Each of these categories has dedicated frequencies, and larger airports may have multiple channels for each function.
-
-
Start Simple
Begin with smaller airports where transmissions are easier to listen to.
-
Take Notes
Write down interesting callsigns or instructions to research later.
-
Practice Patience
ATC communications can seem fast-paced in the beginning, so be patient and keep at it.
-
Respect Privacy
Remember, listening is for education and entertainment. Avoid sharing recordings without permission.
Apps and Websites for ATC Listening
If you’d rather skip the hardware, digital tools make it easy to listen to ATC anywhere:
-
LiveATC.net
One of the most popular platforms for live air traffic control streams.
-
Broadcastify
Offers feeds for various public safety and aviation channels.
-
YouTube Channels
Many aviation enthusiasts upload real ATC recordings.
These resources are especially helpful for listening to international ATC communications or busy hubs like JFK or LAX.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can civilians listen to air traffic control?
Yes, it’s perfectly legal in most countries, including the U.S., as long as you’re not broadcasting the transmissions. -
What’s the best scanner for ATC?
The Uniden Bearcat BC125AT and Icom IC-R6 are popular for their ease of use and reliable performance. -
Why is ATC communication so fast?
Pilots and controllers use concise, standardized phrases to communicate clearly. -
Do I need a license to listen to ATC?
No license is required to listen. However, transmitting on an air traffic control tower frequency is illegal without proper certification.
Takeaway
Now that you know how to do it, listening to air traffic control opens up a whole new world of aviation insights. Get your scanner, find your local frequencies, and enjoy listening to how aviation communication works!
Interested in Aviation Communications?
Our guides are designed to help!
Did you find this article helpful?
Do you think we missed an important interview question? Let us know in the comments below!
