AIM ¶ 1-1-12 — NAVAIDs With Voice
AIM 1-1-12 explains voice-equipped en route NAVAIDs, FSS/approach control, Chart Supplement listings, and hours of operation for pilot checkride prep.
In Plain English
AIM 1-1-12 explains how some en route navigation aids (like VORs) are equipped with two-way voice communication capability, allowing pilots to talk through the NAVAID frequency.
Key points to remember:
- Voice-equipped en route NAVAIDs are operationally controlled by either a Flight Service Station (FSS) or an approach control facility.
- Facilities with two-way voice are identified in the Chart Supplement and on aeronautical charts.
- Unless the chart notes otherwise, all radio navigation aids operate continuously, except during scheduled maintenance shutdowns.
- If a NAVAID has limited hours of operation, those hours are annotated on charts and in the Chart Supplement.
Why this matters operationally: when you lose radio contact, are flying in remote areas, or need to coordinate with ATC/FSS, knowing you can transmit through a VOR's voice feature is a valuable backup. Always verify NAVAID availability and hours during preflight planning — relying on an out-of-service NAVAID could compromise your flight.
AIM Source Text
FAA AIM ¶ 1-1-121-1-12. 1-1-12. NAVAIDs with Voice
Voice equipped en route radio navigational aids are under the operational control of either a Flight Service Station (FSS) or an approach control facility. Facilities with two-way voice communication available are indicated in the Chart Supplement and aeronautical charts. Unless otherwise noted on the chart, all radio navigation aids operate continuously except during shutdowns for maintenance. Hours of operation of facilities not operating continuously are annotated on charts and in the Chart Supplement.
Oral Exam Questions a DPE Might Ask
Q1Who has operational control of voice-equipped en route NAVAIDs?
Per AIM 1-1-12, voice-equipped en route radio navigational aids are under the operational control of either a Flight Service Station (FSS) or an approach control facility.
Q2How can a pilot determine which NAVAIDs have two-way voice communication available?
Per AIM 1-1-12, facilities with two-way voice communication are indicated in the Chart Supplement and on aeronautical charts.
Q3What are the standard hours of operation for radio navigation aids, and how are exceptions identified?
Per AIM 1-1-12, unless otherwise noted on the chart, all radio navigation aids operate continuously except during shutdowns for maintenance. Hours of operation for facilities not operating continuously are annotated on charts and in the Chart Supplement.
Related Paragraphs in AIM Chapter 1