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FAA Revises Flight Service Radio Shutdown Plan and Keeps 262 RCO Sites

Sat, Aug 15, 2026

FAA Revises Flight Service Radio Shutdown Plan and Keeps 262 RCO Sites

The FAA has scaled back plans to eliminate its entire Flight Service Remote Communications Outlet network, choosing instead to retain 262 outlets following industry feedback and additional safety analysis. The agency will decommission 674 locations, comprising 504 RCOs and 170 VOR voice outlets, beginning in September 2026. (Federal Register Public Inspection⁠)

RCOs provide pilots with direct radio access to Flight Service for weather information, flight planning assistance, inflight advisories and other operational support. The FAA originally considered removing the entire network as pilots increasingly shifted towards mobile and digital services, but concerns were raised about maintaining reliable communications in remote areas and during emergencies. (Federal Aviation Administration⁠)

For business aviation crews operating into smaller or less-connected airports, retaining part of the network preserves an important communications backup. Of the remaining outlets, 113 will continue using the familiar 122.2 frequency. Pilots will need to monitor NOTAMs and updated charts as individual frequencies are withdrawn. (Federal Aviation Administration⁠)

The revised strategy demonstrates the balance facing aviation modernisation: reducing ageing infrastructure while ensuring digital technology does not remove valuable redundancy from the National Airspace System.

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