Avians ensures the provision of secure and efficient communication for our customers through Iceland Radio. Each year, approximately 500,000 messages are dispatched from the Radio Communication Centre, and more messages are distributed through the AFTN/AMHS message system.
Iceland Radio, the aeronautical communications centre in Iceland, maintains voice communications, through HF and VHF frequencies, within BIRD oceanic control area. All air to ground communication is conducted in English, and to ensure aircraft safety across the north Atlantic Ocean, aviation messages are transmitted and received by the aeronautical communication centre. Messages received and delivered by Radio Operators include aircraft position reports, changes of altitude, speed and route, weather reports, airport landing conditions, emergency response, company dispatch messages or a phone patch service. In accordance with its purpose, aircraft messages are distributed to area control centres or ATC, meteorological offices, airports and aircraft operators.
In 2006, Iceland Radio commenced a joint operation with Shanwick Radio, the AirNav Ireland North Atlantic Communications Centre in Ballygirreen, Ireland. The joint operation agreement with Shandwick Radio in Ballygirreen allows Iceland Radio to render service in the Irish oceanic control area, and for Shanwick Radio to assist Iceland Radio within Reykjavík Control Area. The two stations are fully interconnected, both operational and communications systems and thus enabled to share their workforce and equipment. The joint operation has resulted in considerable increase in efficiency, and an enhanced service at lower combined operational costs.
About 40 people work at Iceland Radio