After receiving reports of an illegal radio transmission, detected near aviation communication channels or frequencies that are used by Tonga's aircraft and air traffic control, the government issued a warning today that It may cause a serious disruption to air travel, posing high risks to the safety of life in the sky.

Tonga's Department of Communications, under MEIDECC, said they are monitoring the situation.

Tonga Airport Limited reported the illegal radio transmission that a Tongan aircraft picked up, last Wednesday  22 November.

The VHF Aeronautical Aircraft Radio Station channels are frequency channels used by aircrafts and air traffic control to ensure safe take-offs, landings, and flight navigation, and are classified, to protect it from disruptions.

“Interference with this frequency can cause confusion, miscommunication, and potentially catastrophic consequences for aircraft, their passengers, and people on the ground. The transmission may also cause disruptions to air traffic control services, which could lead to delays, diversions, or worse,” stated MEIDECC.

Acting Director for Communications, Stan Ahio told Matangi Tonga today, that they are closely monitoring the situation, to identify this illegal transmission.

“The exact source from this interference has not been identified because its transmission is unclear and very noisy. It’s on and off.”

Mr Ahio said it could be a broadcast, or could be from a vessel.

He said there were some challenges in detecting this illegal transmission because it is intermittent.

"Its also quite challenging trying to detect the transmission from the ground, as opposed to being on the air."

Mr. Ahio said they had not able to identify the language used from the illegal transmission, whether it is Tongan or not.

Meanwhile, they are currently monitoring the situation. They have contacted the local radio stations, just to be aware.

At this point of the illegal transmission inspection, the police are not involved. However, Mr. Ahio said the police will be involved if the source is identifed.

In the meantime, he said it is important to make the public aware of the situation and its seriousness.

"Someone could be playing around with a radio and does not know this is what they're causing."

The Communications Department urged all residents and citizens of Tonga, and Radiocommunication users to take the following actions to ensure their safety and the safety of those in the sky:

1. Immediately cease any activities that may be causing the illegal transmission on or near the VHF Aeronautical Aircraft Radio Station channels.
2. Notify the Department of Communications, Ministry of MEIDECC immediately if you suspect or have knowledge of any illegal transmission on or near the frequency.
3. Remain vigilant and report any further suspicious activities or sightings of illegal transmissions to the Department of Communications, Ministry of MEIDECC.

He said that failure to comply with these instructions may result in legal action and/or penalties under the Tonga’s Civil Aviation Regulations.

“Additionally, non-compliance may lead to the suspension or revocation of your license to operate any radio equipment in the country,” he said.