In an air taxi or aerial work service, where must the COM (communications equipment) be located?

In an air taxi or aerial work service operation, the communication equipment must be readily accessible to ensure that flight crews can maintain effective communication during their operations. By placing the communications equipment in each aircraft or ensuring it is assigned to each flight crew member, it guarantees that the crew can communicate with air traffic control and other necessary parties in real-time, which is critical for safety and operational efficiency.

Having the communications equipment on board the aircraft allows the crew to respond immediately to any changes in flight plans, updates from air traffic control, or emergencies that may arise during the flight. This arrangement is consistent with regulatory requirements that prioritize safety and the ability to communicate effectively in all phases of flight. Access to operational communication tools directly contributes to improved situational awareness and enhances the responsiveness of the flight crew, thereby raising the standards of safety in aerial operations.