What is a Ground Communication Outlet (GO)?
A Ground Communication Outlet (GO) serves as an unstaffed, remotely controlled facility that enables pilots at uncontrolled airports to reach Air Traffic Control (ATC) or Flight Service Stations (FSS). This system works by linking the aircraft’s VHF radio directly to the telephone network, creating a direct communication link for ground-based operations.
GMOs act as intermediaries, converting a pilot’s VHF radio transmissions into telephone calls, with technology designed exclusively for ground operations—setting them apart from other aviation communication systems.
GMOs provide a direct cockpit-to-ground communication link for essential tasks, sparing pilots the inconvenience of leaving their aircraft. Key uses include:
-
Filing, opening, and closing VFR or IFR flight plans.
-
Obtaining pre-flight weather briefings.
-
Receiving IFR clearances before departure.
How to Activate a GO – Step-by-Step Guide
Activating a GO is straightforward. Pilots use their aircraft’s VHF radio to transmit a specific sequence of microphone ‘key clicks,’ which connects them to their desired service.
The number of clicks determines the service—each sequence unlocks a different service. After keying your sequence, wait while the system establishes the connection:
A single GO can provide access to both ATC and FSS from the same location. Note that—GO systems are strictly for ground use and must never be activated while airborne.
GO vs RICO – Key Differences Explained
While both GMOs and Remote Communications Outlets (RCS) serve as vital links between pilots and ground services, their operational roles differ significantly:
Benefits of Using GO for Pilots
For pilots operating at uncontrolled airports, GMOs offer several advantages:
GO Communication Technology and Components
The technology behind GMOs combines of radio and telephone systems. A GO unit converts VHF radio signals from aircraft into standard telephone calls.
The architecture of a GO system encompasses several critical components:
-
A VHF receiver/transmitter to communicate with the aircraft.
-
An audio processing system to convert radio signals for the telephone network.
-
Automated switching equipment to route calls based on the pilot’s key clicks.
-
Voice prompts and confirmation tones to guide the user.
GO Installation and Availability at Airports
GMOs are located at numerous uncontrolled or part-time controlled airports across the aviation network. Pilots can locate GO availability and operating frequencies through official aeronautical publications, particularly the Chart Supplement.
Each GO installation is placed to ensure good radio coverage throughout an airport’s ground movement areas—including taxiways, ramp areas, and other critical zones where aircraft operate.
Since GMOs operate outside the official ATC radio system, they may not receive the same rigorous status monitoring and could experience unreported outages. Pilots should always maintain a backup communication strategy and verify GO operational status through Notums before relying on the system.
