10 Best Aviation Radio Scanner

The Uniden UBC-125XLT is a handheld radio scanner designed with aviation and other radio listening in mind. It covers a wide frequency range from CB and VHF air traffic to military and public service bands, making it well suited for anyone interested in monitoring civil and military air traffic, marine channels, and more. With 500 channel memories organized into 10 banks, you can store and quickly access your favorite frequencies. The scanner’s scan speed of 90 steps per second is fast enough to efficiently cycle through channels without much delay.

One of its biggest advantages is that it comes pre-programmed with key frequencies, including major UK airports and military airfields, so you don’t have to spend time setting it up yourself. It also supports features like close call scanning and alpha tagging, which help identify and find active transmissions easily. The device is quite portable—lightweight at 175 grams and compact in size—making it easy to carry around. It includes a standard antenna but also allows for connection of more powerful external antennas if needed.

The display and interface details are basic and might not offer the advanced features or touchscreens found on more expensive models. It uses AA rechargeable batteries, which are easy to replace but may not last as long as built-in lithium batteries. This scanner suits casual to intermediate users who want a reliable, ready-to-use device to listen to aviation and other radio communications without complex setup.

The Whistler TRX-2 is a solid desktop digital scanner that works well for aviation enthusiasts and general scanner users who want easy access to a wide range of frequencies, including digital formats like APCO P25 Phase I & II. It comes with a preloaded MicroSD card covering USA and Canada, simplifying setup with zip code programming and internet updates. The scanner supports various tuning steps and includes handy features like a dedicated SKYWARN/weather button and a clear clock/calendar display.

Its spectrum sweeper and CTCSS/DCS decoding help narrow down active channels quickly. Though designed as a desktop model, it’s relatively compact and lightweight, making it easy to fit in smaller spaces, but it isn’t meant for portable use on the go. The USB connectivity allows for easy firmware upgrades and data transfers.

This user-friendly, reliable scanner is best suited for home or fixed-location use by hobbyists wanting solid digital scanning capability with convenient programming and weather alert features.

The Yaesu FTA850L portable VHF radio scanner offers a frequency range of 118,000 to 136,992 MHz, which is well-suited for aviation communications. With 66 channels stored in internal EPROM memory, it provides ample storage for frequently used channels. The 2200 mAh battery ensures decent operational time, making it reliable for extended use. Additionally, the IPX5 water resistance rating ensures durability under various weather conditions, which is beneficial for aviation use.

Its programmable feature adds customization options to tailor the device to specific needs. Weighing 1.19 kg and measuring 15 x 6.5 x 4 cm, it is portable but may feel slightly bulky for some users.

The Yaesu FTA850L seems to be a solid choice for aviation enthusiasts who prioritize frequency range and channel memory.