Icom IC-A120 VHF Aviation Transceiver (118–136.99 MHz)
The IC-A120 is a vehicle-mount VHF airband transceiver for airport ground operations - ramp crews, FBOs, and flight training facilities. It covers the full 118–136.99 MHz airband with 9W AM output, 200 programmable memory channels, and a built-in Active Noise Canceller.
The unit runs on 12V or 24V vehicle power. With the optional PS-80 power supply, it converts to a desktop base station.
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Why Professionals Choose the Icom IC-A120
The IC-A120 transmits at 9W carrier power (AM) across the full VHF airband - 118.000 to 136.99166 MHz. Supports both 25 kHz and 8.33 kHz channel spacing. 200 memory channels with 12-character names, programmable via CS-A120 software or directly from the front panel. Channel access can be locked per operator - useful in multi-crew ramp environments.
Built-in ANC (Active Noise Canceller) reduces background noise on received audio by up to 90%. The separate ANL (Automatic Noise Limiter) targets pulse-type interference from vehicle ignition. The two functions are mutually exclusive — select based on the dominant noise source. Both run without external hardware.
Rated IP54 (dust-protection and water resistance) and MIL-STD-810 C/D/E/F certified. Operating temperature range: −30°C to +60°C. Draws 5.0A on TX at 13.75V DC; compatible with 27.5V DC systems as well.
Two configurations: vehicle mount (12V or 24V vehicle power) or base station with the optional PS-80 power supply. Optional UT-133A Bluetooth unit enables wireless headset connectivity. VE-PG4 RoIP gateway supports network integration for remote monitoring.
FCC Part 87 certified for US airband ground operations. No TSO certification — ground use only, not approved for airborne panel installation.
Specification
General
| Frequency Range (TX/RX) | 118.000–136.99166 MHz | |
| Type of Emission | 6K00A3E / 5K60A3E (FCC/EXP) | |
| Channel Spacing | 25 kHz / 8.33 kHz | |
| Memory Channels | 200 (12-character channel names) | |
| Power Supply | 13.75V DC / 27.5V DC (negative ground) | |
| Current Drain (13.75V) | TX: 5.0A / Max audio: 4.0A | |
| Antenna Impedance | 50Ω | |
| Antenna Connector | SO-239 | |
| Operating Temperature | −30°C to +60°C (−22°F to +140°F) | |
| Dimensions (W×H×D) | 161 × 45 × 175 mm (6.3 × 1.8 × 6.9 in) | |
| Weight (approx.) | 1.5 kg (3.3 lb) | |
Transmitter
| RF Output Power | 9W carrier power, typical (at 13.75V) |
| Modulation | AM — last stage modulation |
| Microphone Impedance | 600Ω |
Receiver
| Receiver System | Double conversion superheterodyne |
| Intermediate Frequencies | 1st: 38.85 MHz / 2nd: 450 kHz |
| Sensitivity | Less than 1 µV (pd) at 6 dB S/N |
| Squelch Sensitivity | Less than 0.35 µV (pd) |
| Selectivity (8.33 kHz spacing) | 2.778 kHz / 7.37 kHz (6 dB / 60 dB) |
| Selectivity (25 kHz spacing) | 8 kHz / 25 kHz (6 dB / 60 dB) |
| Spurious Response Rejection | More than 74 dBµ |
| Audio Output — Internal Speaker | 1.5W (8Ω load) |
| Audio Output — External Speaker | More than 10W (8Ω load) |
| Audio Output — Headphones | More than 100 mW (500Ω load) |
Compliance
| FCC Certification | Part 87 |
| MIL-STD | MIL-STD-810 C, D, E, F |
| IP Rating | IP54 |
FCC Licensing and Compliance Support
Operating an aviation radio in the United States requires an Aircraft Station License issued by the FCC under Part 87. This applies to all ground vehicles and facilities operating on airband frequencies, including ramp equipment, FBO dispatch stations, and airport ground support operations. Operators communicating in international airspace are additionally required to hold an FCC Restricted Radiotelephone Operator Permit.
As an authorized Icom dealer, AXDIGITAL assists customers with understanding FCC Part 87 requirements for ground-based aviation radio installations. Whether you are equipping a single vehicle or setting up a multi-unit ground operations network, our team will confirm the correct licensing path for your facility.
The IC-A120 is FCC Part 87 certified for airband communication across the full 118.000–136.99166 MHz range. It is approved for ground-based and vehicle-mounted use. This model does not carry TSO certification and is not approved for airborne panel installation — consult Icom America or your avionics shop for aircraft-installed units.
Contact us to discuss licensing requirements for your airport or aviation operation.
FAQ
What is the communication range of the IC-A120?
Range for a ground-based VHF radio depends on antenna height, terrain, and local RF environment — there is no fixed published figure. On an open airport ramp with a quality roof-mount antenna, line-of-sight coverage across a large airfield is typical. Icom does not publish a guaranteed range specification for this model.
Can the IC-A120 be used as a desktop base station?
Yes. With the optional PS-80 DC power supply, the IC-A120 connects to a standard 110V wall outlet and operates as a full base station — no vehicle power required. The SO-239 antenna connector accepts a standard coaxial cable to an external antenna. This makes it a practical solution for FBO dispatch counters and tower support positions.
Does the IC-A120 require a separate FCC license to operate?
Yes. Operating on airband frequencies in the US requires an Aircraft Station License under FCC Part 87, even for ground-based use. The IC-A120 is FCC certified and meets Part 87 requirements. AXDIGITAL can advise on the licensing process — contact our team for guidance on your specific installation.
