Spectrum Stewardship for America's Flight Test Community

The Aerospace and Flight Test Radio Coordinating Council, Inc (AFTRCC) is a not-for-profit 501(c)(6) organization of Radio Frequency Management Representatives from major aerospace companies.

AFTRCC was founded in 1954 and recognized by the FCC in 1969 as a frequency coordinating committee for non-government flight test telemetry assignments. Its role has expanded over time to support evolving spectrum needs.

AFTRCC is the only organization dedicated to protecting radio frequencies for aerospace tests and evaluations. AFTRCC is recognized by the FCC and NTIA as the non-government coordinator for assignment of flight test frequencies. This includes HF and VHF voice frequencies (FCC) and telemetry frequencies (FCC and NTIA), including 1435–1535 MHz, 2360–2395 MHz, 2345–2360 MHz, and 5091-5150 MHz on a secondary basis.

Our Objectives

AFTRCC’s objectives focus on supporting reliable communication for aerospace testing through effective spectrum coordination, industry collaboration, and ongoing engagement in policy and regulatory discussions.

To advance the arts and sciences of radio communications, and the efficient allocation and utilization of the electromagnetic spectrum, in connection with the flight testing of aircraft, missiles, and major components thereof.

To protect and promote the interests of the aerospace manufacturing industry in the availability of suitable radio frequency resources, and in the formulation of rules and policies relating to the usage of the electromagnetic spectrum.

Our Services

Today, AFTRCC coordinates frequency assignments and supports industry engagement on spectrum use, helping ensure reliable communication for aerospace testing and evaluation programs.

Frequency Coordination

Supports telemetry and voice frequency assignments for flight testing programs. Coordination helps ensure compatibility across aircraft, missile, and aerospace operations using shared spectrum.

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Coordination Policies

Provides guidance on eligibility, submission requirements, and coordination procedures. Resources help applicants navigate timelines and meet established standards.

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Spectrum Policy & Engagement

Engages in discussions related to spectrum use and regulatory considerations. Members collaborate to address challenges impacting aerospace communications.

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Meetings & Council Activities

The Executive Committee and Board of Directors conduct AFTRCC’s affairs. All officers and board members are full-time employees of member companies and are elected by the membership.

AFTRCC meetings are held semi-annually. One meeting each year takes place in the Washington, D.C. area to facilitate communication with government decision-makers in the spectrum management field. The other meeting is typically hosted near a member company location.

AFTRCC meetings provide a dedicated industry forum where Radio Frequency Management Representatives from member companies can meet to discuss matters of common professional interest. The direct exchange of information through agenda presentations and related discussions is highly valuable to members.

Representatives from the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA), DoD Military Departments (Army, Air Force, and Navy), Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Federal Communications Commission (FCC), NASA, and other agencies actively participate in AFTRCC meetings. Their presentations span a wide range of radio frequency management topics.

These meetings also provide members with the opportunity to engage directly with government counterparts involved in coordination and scheduling of flight test operations.

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