Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the Icom A220 and the A220T?
The key difference is certification. The 'T' marks the TSO-approved version, certified under TSO-C128a and TSO-C169a. This makes the A220T legal for use as a primary COM radio in certified Part 23 aircraft such as Cessna, Piper, Beechcraft, and Mooney, while the standard A220 is intended for experimental and LSA aircraft.
Is the Icom A220T compliant with 8.33 kHz channel spacing mandates?
Yes. The A220T is fully compliant and switches easily between 8.33 kHz and 25 kHz channel spacing, so it meets current and future airspace requirements in the United States and abroad. Frequency coverage is 118.000 to 136.992 MHz, helping keep your aircraft future-proof for global compliance.
How readable is the OLED display in direct sunlight?
Very readable. Unlike traditional LCD screens that wash out, the white OLED display generates light from each pixel, delivering high contrast, razor-sharp text, and an almost 180-degree viewing angle. It stays exceptionally bright and clear even in intense direct sunlight, so frequencies are easy to read at a glance.
Does the A220T require a separate dedicated intercom?
No. The A220T includes a built-in, voice-activated 2-place intercom with adjustable audio and squelch levels for clear pilot and co-pilot communication. This integrated function eliminates the need for a separate intercom unit, saving panel space, reducing installation complexity, and lowering overall upgrade cost.
What electrical systems and voltages does the A220T support?
The A220T works with both 13.8V DC and 27.5V DC negative-ground electrical systems, covering common 12-volt and 24-volt aircraft, with no external voltage converter required. This flexibility lets it fit a wide range of certified Part 23 airframes during an avionics upgrade.
How much transmit power does the A220T have?
The A220T delivers 8 watts of carrier transmit power across its 118.000 to 136.992 MHz frequency coverage. Combined with intelligent auto squelch that silences static without cutting out weak but important transmissions, it is built to provide clear, reliable air band communication for both pilot and co-pilot.
Is the A220T easy to install, and will it fit a tight panel?
It is designed for straightforward installation. Its slim 1.34-inch (34mm) height fits tight panels, and it uses a standard D-SUB 25-pin connector, making it a practical slide-in choice for many older radios or new builds. Because it is TSO-certified, plan to have an avionics shop or A&P complete and document the installation.
Will the A220T fit in an older radio tray, such as an IC-A200 slot?
The A220T shares the slim panel dimensions of 6.3 by 1.34 by 10.67 inches and uses a standard D-SUB 25-pin connector, which makes it an easy slide-in replacement for many older units. For an exact fit against a specific existing tray or bracket, confirm dimensions and wiring with your avionics installer before ordering.
Does the A220T come with a mounting tray and what is in the box?
Yes. Each A220T ships with the IC-A220T transceiver, a mounting bracket kit, and an installation manual. Because the unit has a built-in 2-place intercom, you do not need to budget extra panel space or cost for a separate intercom unit during your avionics upgrade.
Does the A220T have a manual squelch in addition to auto squelch?
Yes. The A220T offers intelligent auto squelch that adapts to the noise level automatically, plus manual squelch control. Auto squelch silences background static without cutting out weak but important transmissions, while manual control lets you fine-tune the threshold for your own flying conditions and environment.
How do I reach the 121.5 MHz emergency frequency and how many memory channels are there?
The A220T provides one-touch access to the 121.5 MHz emergency frequency. For everyday use it stores 20 regular memory channels, 50 group channels, 20 history channels, and 10 weather channels, with a large flip-flop button for quick active and standby frequency recall.
What are the dimensions and weight of the A220T?
The A220T measures 6.3 inches wide by 1.34 inches high by 10.67 inches deep (160 by 34 by 271 mm) and weighs about 2.65 pounds (1.2 kg). The slim 1.34-inch height is designed for easy installation in tight instrument panels where space is limited.
Where can I buy the Icom A220T and what does it cost?
The TSO-certified Icom A220T ships free within the United States on orders over $100. Click for Price on the product page for current pricing. It is sold by an authorized aviation retailer, so you receive a new, factory-fresh unit for your certified avionics upgrade.
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