10 Best Aviation Radio Scanner 2025 in the United States

The Icom IC-A16 VHF COM Aviation Handheld radio scanner is a solid choice for aviation enthusiasts and professionals who need a reliable communication tool in the skies. With a frequency range of 118.000–136.99166 MHz for transmission and 108.000–136.99166 MHz, plus 161.650–163.275 MHz for reception, it covers a broad spectrum of aviation channels. The scanner's capacity for 200 channels allows users to store and quickly access frequent frequencies, which is great for those who monitor multiple communications.

One of the standout features is the exclusive button for the 121.5MHz emergency channel, providing peace of mind during flights. The full keypad enables easy input of channels or frequencies, making it user-friendly for those who aren't as tech-savvy. Additionally, the scanner includes a side tone function, which allows users to hear their own voice through third-party aviation headsets, enhancing communication clarity.

The IC-A16 is lightweight (just 9.1 ounces) and compact, making it portable and easy to carry during flights. Its waterproof design adds to its durability, especially in outdoor situations. Some users might find the scanning speed slower compared to higher-end models, which could be a drawback for those who need to quickly switch between channels. While the sensitivity is generally good, it may not be as high as more expensive units, possibly impacting performance in very remote areas. The display interface is clear, but it might lack some advanced features found in premium models. Battery life is decent, powered by a single Lithium Ion battery, but users may need to invest in a spare for extended use.

The Icom IC-A16 is well-suited for casual aviators and professionals looking for a dependable, portable option without needing advanced scanning capabilities. Its robust features and ease of use make it a good fit for those prioritizing reliability in aviation communication.

The Icom IC-A16B VHF Air Band Handheld Transceiver Radio excels in many important areas for aviation enthusiasts and professionals. Its Bluetooth feature stands out, allowing for hands-free operation which is highly convenient during flights. The full keypad is user-friendly, making it easy to input channels and frequencies directly. A dedicated emergency channel button for 121.5MHz adds an extra layer of safety.

The side tone function is a neat addition, letting you hear your own voice through an aviation headset, making communication clearer. The LCD backlight is useful for night operations, ensuring visibility in low light conditions. The frequency range of 108 MHz to 137 MHz covers all essential aviation bands, and with a memory capacity of 100 channels, it provides ample space for storing your most used frequencies.

Weighing just 9.1 ounces, the device is lightweight and portable, ideal for carrying on the go. It's also waterproof, adding durability. The device requires a lithium-ion battery, which is included, but having only one battery might limit extended use without recharging. This handheld transceiver is best suited for pilots, ground crew, and aviation hobbyists who need a reliable, portable, and feature-rich radio scanner.

The Yaesu FT-65R is a rugged and compact dual-band handheld transceiver covering 144-148 MHz (VHF) and 440-450 MHz (UHF) frequencies. While these bands are popular for amateur radio, it does not specifically cover the wide aviation band (typically around 118-137 MHz), which might limit its use for aviation radio scanning. It offers 200 memory channels and multiple scan modes, including priority and weather alert scanning, which is handy for quickly monitoring important frequencies. Its scanning speed and sensitivity are reliable for its size, helping catch transmissions clearly.

The large front speaker provides clear audio with 1 watt output, and its 5-watt transmit power ensures good communication range for handheld use, though the maximum talking range is modest around 65 feet under normal conditions. The FT-65R excels in portability, being small, lightweight (around 9 ounces), and built tough with IP54 water and dust resistance plus military-standard durability. Battery life is strong, with over 9 hours on the standard battery and optional extended packs available.

The interface includes programmable quick keys and a white LED flashlight, adding convenience for outdoor or emergency use. Additional features like VOX operation, PC programmability, and channel cloning make it versatile. The display is basic and may not be the easiest for beginners to navigate quickly. This radio is well suited for amateur radio users or those needing a durable dual-band handheld for general VHF/UHF use rather than dedicated aviation scanning.