Definition
The band of radio frequencies from 30 to 300 megahertz (MHz). In aviation, VHF is used for most air-to-ground voice communications (118.000–136.975 MHz) and for navigation aids such as VOR and ILS localizers. VHF signals travel essentially in straight lines (line-of-sight), so reception depends on altitude and terrain rather than ground-following or atmospheric bounce.
Plain English
A range of radio frequencies that aircraft use for talking to ATC and for many navigation signals. Because the signals travel in straight lines, you need a clear line of sight between the aircraft and the station — higher altitude means longer range.
Context Anchor
You will see VHF discussed in aircraft radio communication, navigation equipment, and explanations of why radio reception can fade or be blocked.
Derivation
The name simply ranks this band on the radio spectrum. Frequencies below it are called high frequency (HF, 3–30 MHz); above it sits ultra high frequency (UHF, 300–3000 MHz). "Very high" is relative to the older HF band that came before it — at the time these names were assigned, 30–300 MHz was the upper edge of practical radio use.
Why Pilots Care
VHF carries nearly all routine ATC voice traffic and VOR signals; understanding its line-of-sight limits helps pilots anticipate reception problems caused by distance or terrain.
Analogy
VHF often behaves more like a flashlight than a sound spreading through a whole room. If something solid blocks the path, the signal may become weak or disappear.
Intuition Check
“Very high” does not mean the strongest or best radio signal. Here it names a specific radio frequency range: 30 to 300 megahertz.
Example Sentence 1
The pilot tuned the VHF radio to 124.35 to contact approach control.
Example Sentence 2
Because VHF signals require line of sight, the controller advised the low-altitude aircraft to expect a handoff soon.