QantasLink's radio procedure required crew to use communications panel radio 2 (COM 2) to broadcast and receive on local frequencies during operations at a non‑controlled aerodrome. This reduced the likelihood of the Dash 8 receiving the calls from other aircraft at either end of runway 05/23 at Wagga Wagga in certain circumstances.
The operator's radio procedure required crew to use communications panel radio 2 (COM 2) to broadcast and receive on local frequencies during operations at a non-towered aerodrome. This reduced the transmission strength and the likelihood of other aircraft receiving the calls from the Dash 8 in certain circumstances.
QantasLink advised the ATSB that further assessment of the use of VHF COM 1 for ground-based communications at non-controlled aerodromes for Dash 8 aircraft was being progressed, but not yet finalised.
ATSB is awaiting further information from QantasLink to assess the safety issue status.
CASA advised the ATSB on 10 September 2025 that it has added new guidance and recommendations relating to the use of radios where the antenna is mounted on the underside of the aircraft fuselage to both Advisory Circular (AC) 91-10 version 1.3 (Operations in the vicinity of non-controlled aerodromes) and AC 91-14 version 1.6 (Pilots’ responsibility for collision avoidance).
AC 91-10 added new Section 8.5 regarding radio communications for aircraft with fuselage underside antenna installations. Pilots operating aircraft with similar antenna placements are reminded that ground-based transmissions, when made using a radio with a fuselage underside antenna, are likely to have an increased risk of not being reliably received by other traffic. To enhance situational awareness and collision avoidance, especially at non-controlled aerodromes where radio-alerted see‑and‑avoid is critical, pilots are strongly recommended, whenever practicable, to use radios connected to antennas in unobstructed locations, such as an aircraft upper fuselage, for ground communications.
AC 91-14 added a new Section 8.1, regarding radio communications for aircraft with underside antenna installations.
This documentation from the regulator further highlights and advises operators of the limitations that can be encountered regrading radio installation and operation. Thus, supporting the ATSB‑identified safety issue.
