Definition
A shorthand label used on aeronautical charts and in flight publications to indicate a radio frequency, expressed in megahertz (MHz) for VHF communications and navigation, or kilohertz (kHz) for low-frequency navigation aids.
Plain English
A short way of writing 'frequency' next to a number, telling you which radio channel to tune for talking to a controller or receiving a navigation signal.
Context Anchor
Seen on IFR charts, airport information, flight plan materials, and aircraft radio displays wherever a communication channel is listed.
Derivation
Frequency comes from a Latin word meaning repeated often. In radio, it refers to how often a radio wave repeats each second. Aviation shortens frequency to FREQ on charts and displays because space is limited.
Why Pilots Care
Correct frequency selection ensures clear communication with controllers and accurate navigation signals, critical for safe IFR flight.
Intuition Check
FREQ does not mean how often you should talk. In this context, it means the specific radio channel number to tune.
Example Sentence 1
The approach plate listed the tower FREQ as 118.3, so the pilot tuned it in before crossing the final approach fix.