ICOM's first new models in over a year further refine the brand's flagship handheld aviation transceivers.

ICOM focused on making the A6 and A24 easier to use, especially focusing on one-handed usage. The slightly elongated shape fits the hand better, moves the keypad up for easier thumb-keying, makes more room for larger, easier-to-hit keys, more ergonomically places the PTT switch, and makes room for a larger, more readable display. It also adds space for a more robust 1650 mAh battery pack, promising better transmissions and longer battery life.

Obviously, Icom has come to the conclusion that the last generation of handhelds followed the 'smaller-is-better' mantra a little too far, sacrificing ease of use and performance in order to shoe-horn everything in a tiny package. The daring, and we think worthwhile, move of releasing new models that are noticeably larger than previous models is a positive development in ergonomics and ease of use. A new ease-of-use-minded feature is the 'flip-flop' functionality. The radio automatically saves the last 10 frequencies used in a 'flip-flop' memory bank. You can then cycle through those frequencies using two arrow buttons right under the screen.

Some of the new features added in the A6 and A24 are:

• Extra-large, alpha-numeric LCD display -- makes it easier to see both letters and numbers for quick frequency recognition
• Larger, well-labeled buttons -- make it easier to access functions
• Flip-Flop Channel Recall -- stores the last 10 channels used for easy 'flip-flop' button switching
• Water Resistance -- provides reliable operation in rainy conditions
• High-capacity, 1650 mAh NiMH battery pack -- no memory, lots of power
• ANL (Auto Noise Limiter) for noise reduction
• Tag scanning and memory bank scanning
• 200 memory channels in 10 memory banks
• Operation from external DC power jack -- makes simultaneous use and charging possible through cigarette lighter adapter (optional) or wall charger

• Low battery alert
• NOAA marine weather channel access
• One-touch access to the 121.5 emergency frequency
• Squelch control
• WX-alert function
• Side tone function -- allows you to hear your own voice via an external aviation headset

• DVOR mode shows the radial to or from a VOR station
• CDI mode shows course deviation to or from  a VOR station
• Duplex operation allows calling to a COM frequency while using VOR navigation
  

Supplied Accessories:

• Wall charger
• Headset adapter
• Antenna
• High-capacity 1650 mAh NiMH battery pack