Yaesu FTA-250L Com Only Transceiver: Handheld Aviation Radio

Is the Yaesu FTA-250L a Com only radio, or does it have NAV and VOR capability?

The FTA-250L is a communications only airband transceiver, built for two way voice contact with towers, ground, and other aircraft. It does not include navigation features such as VOR, localizer, or GPS moving maps. Pilots who want built in navigation generally choose a separate NAV COM handheld instead of this communication focused model.

Is the Yaesu FTA-250L waterproof and how rugged is it?

Yes. The FTA-250L carries an IPX5 waterproof rating, so it resists rain, spray, and demanding outdoor conditions. It is built around a rugged polycarbonate housing made to hold up on the flight line and ramp. Yaesu backs the radio with an industry leading three year waterproof warranty, reflecting confidence in the sealed, durable design.

What frequencies does the FTA-250L cover and is it 8.33 kHz compliant?

The FTA-250L operates on the VHF civil aviation airband and complies with current 8.33 kHz narrow band channel spacing, so it works with modern airspace requirements. It offers a generous 250 channel memory bank, letting you store the tower, approach, ground, and common frequencies you use most for quick recall in the cockpit.

How much transmit power does the Yaesu FTA-250L put out?

Yaesu publishes a transmit rating of 5 watts PEP, with about 1.5 watts of carrier power, on the VHF aviation airband. As a line of sight radio its usable range grows with altitude, so it reaches farther from the air than from the ground. The loud 700mW audio output also helps received calls cut through cockpit and ramp noise.

Can the FTA-250L tune the 121.5 emergency frequency?

Yes. The 121.5 MHz international emergency frequency falls within the FTA-250L airband coverage, so you can monitor or transmit on it as needed and store it in memory for fast recall. Always follow current regulations and use the emergency frequency only for its intended purpose during an actual emergency or as directed by air traffic control.

Does the FTA-250L have scan and dual watch features?

Yes. The FTA-250L supports memory and band scanning so you can sweep stored channels for activity, plus a dual watch function that monitors a second frequency while you stay on your primary channel. These features make it easier to keep an ear on tower or approach while still catching traffic on another frequency you care about.

How long does the battery last and how do you charge the FTA-250L?

The radio uses a high capacity 1950mAh rechargeable lithium ion battery sized for extended flight time. Charging is flexible, with both AC and 12 volt DC options plus a convenient drop in charging cradle included in the box. Actual runtime varies with how much you transmit, receive, and leave the radio in standby.

How big and heavy is the Yaesu FTA-250L?

The FTA-250L is one of the more compact aviation handhelds, with a slim body that fits easily in a flight bag, glovebox, or large pocket. It weighs roughly ten to eleven ounces with its battery installed. That light, pocketable size is a big reason pilots pick it as a grab and go backup radio for the cockpit or ramp.

What kind of antenna does the FTA-250L use and can it be replaced?

The FTA-250L uses a flexible airband antenna on a standard removable connector. Because the antenna detaches, you can remove it for storage or swap to another compatible airband antenna when you want different reception or range. Check the connector type before buying a replacement so the new antenna matches the radio fitting correctly.

What comes in the box with the FTA-250L?

The FTA-250L ships as a complete value package. It includes the transceiver, the 1950mAh lithium ion battery, a headset adapter, a belt clip, AC and 12 volt DC charging, and a drop in charging cradle. This gives you everything needed to start receiving and transmitting and to keep the radio charged at home or in the aircraft.

Can you use a headset, and is the FTA-250L good for student pilots or as a backup?

Yes. The FTA-250L includes a headset adapter so you can connect a general aviation headset. With loud 700mW audio, a simple E2O Easy to Operate menu for single handed use, and a high contrast display readable in any lighting, it suits student pilots and works as a dependable backup or flight bag radio for experienced pilots.

How does the FTA-250L compare to other Yaesu FTA handheld radios?

The FTA-250L is Yaesu's compact, communication only model, so it transmits and receives voice on the airband without navigation reception. Step up models in the Yaesu lineup add features such as a larger display or built in NAV receiver functions like VOR and localizer. If you want a simple, affordable airband talker or backup, the FTA-250L is the entry point. Click for Price to compare.