Is it illegal to listen to ATC communication with VHF receiver in the UK?

Question

PS: ATC=Air Traffic Control

Answer 1

No it is not, as long as you are not doing it for illegal purposes. In other words don't be caught with a scanner switched to the approach freq and a shouder launched,infra red,anti aircraft missile in the backseat of your car.

The authorities might get a little bit suspicious in a case such as that.

However, to be caught with a tranceiver near to an airport, without using for the purposes of flight is another matter entirely

Answer 2

Well, this is the US version of YA, so you are going to get mostly answers from people who live in the USA. Our radio rules are pretty simple, you cannot listen to anything that is coded or on a restricted frequency. You are also restricted from listening to cell phone calls. Of course, many people do it, it's just illegal. There are no restrictions on listening to ATC and pilots. Many US companies sell radios just to listen to them. Of course, that may be different in the UK. I would click on the little UK flag on the bottom of the screen and ask again there. Good luck.

Answer 3

ATC transmissions are not included in the licensed broadcasts for public reception, so it's only legal if you accidentally hear them, and don't pass the information to an unauthorised third party. In practice you wouldn't have any problem unless you draw attention to yourself in some other fashion (having a beard, speaking arabic &c.)

Answer 4

Not that i am aware of however in the current climate i am unsure I know it is illegal to listen to the Fire Police Ambulance and Customs and Excise

Answer 5

Technically, yes, it's not a public broadcast. However, a blind eye is usually turned unless you seem suspicious.

Answer 6

No, just buy a scanner and do it.