I guess you wonder why we have decided to use 2 way radios both in spotting and in the Airport watch program. This is for it’s easy free and you can give the same message to all that are on the same channel as you instantly.

Here are five benefits of using two-way radios instead of mobile phones

1. Service during emergencies. Cell service towers and landlines may fail during an emergency or disaster. However, two-way radios will continue to work during those situations. Additionally, all members of the group can be contacted at once, as opposed to daling individual phone numbers via phone.

2. Lightweight durability. Two-way radios are designed to be lightweight and long-lasting. While some phones may require a protective case for use on the site, two-way radios are often built to military and IP specifications, so they are less likely to crack or break when dropped. They are also designed with long battery life, with many models able to continue operating for 12-26 hours.

3. Cost effective. Two-way radios cost less than cell phones. There are no monthly fees, service contracts or calling minutes. Also, several spotters can share a radio, cutting costs by avoiding the need to issue one per spotter in the group.

4. Communication clarity. Unlike many cell phones, two-way radios are designed to offer clear communication in most conditions. They often include features that reduce wind noise and allow resistance to vibration, extreme temperatures and wet conditions.

5. Ease of use. Two-way radios feature touch-button talk communication, creating a simple means of communication. Some models also include cloning capabilities, which simplify the process of copying radio settings.

But it will be up to each group if they want to use 2 way radio or not it depends I guess how they are set up and how the airport looks like. But if you are spread out on a big aria it can be good to have to keep in contact and maybe plan the photo shoots from different locations.

We will look in to this radio harnesses to see if it’s something we can use where we can have a 2 way in one pocket and a scanner in the other so we have both radios in east reach, that we need to look at is if the radios will be in the way in any shape or form when we take pictures or video.

Using 2-way radios is very simple. There are several models to choose from, each with a variety of features to meet all your communication needs. The handsets are lightweight and easy to carry, making these walkie-talkies fun to use. 

10 Safety Tips

1. Know how to use your two way radio. Make sure all users know how to use the handsets on the model you've purchased. Practice while standing a block away from each other so you both know what to expect when using the radios.

2. Establish a call pattern with your group. Determine which channel you'll use and when you'll meet on the radio. Then agree how often you'll check in with each other.

3. Test the range beforehand. When your group is walking, establish a route. Then check in with each other along that route so you're sure there are no "dead spots".

4. Before leaving, check the batteries in both 2-way radio handsets. AAA batteries generally do not last as long as AA batteries, so be sure to check them more often. If in doubt, always carry a spare set. Between call-in times, the radio can also be turned off to preserve battery life.

5. Always keep extra batteries for the two-way handsets on hand. If the batteries are rechargeable, make sure they remain charged and available at all times. Some Motorola two way radios have a battery power-save function; this slows the battery power expenditure when the handset remains on for long periods. 

6. Purchase walkie-talkie sets sturdy enough to withstand your activities. If your are extremely active and the handset needs extra protection, consider purchasing a rugged case for it.

7. A 2-way radio are not private, your can be approached by strangers over the airwaves. Teach them how to best handle this situation and ways to remain answer.

8. Remember you're sharing channels with others and many people can listen in. Teach your group how to avoid giving exact locations over the radio; Use codes and checkpoints to identify locations like whit GPS coordinates.

9. Figure out a back-up plan. Decide how to best handle a situation if the batteries in the walkie-talkie die or there are 'dead spots' during transmission. For safety, make sure your group has the phone numbers to the base.

10. When on a mountain or on the water, two-way radios should never replace the buddy system. Because of terrain, especially in wilderness areas, there may be dead spots where 2-ways can't transmit. Have a plan for communicating when you're not all together; make sure everyone in your party understands and agrees to it. 
Two-way radios are the perfect solution for staying connected to all members in the group.