Air Traffic Controller reported a continued frequency issue resulting in a significant disruption of HCF ATC operations and creating a potential safety hazard.

Date: 2025-01 · Aircraft: No Aircraft

Anomalies: atc-issue-all-types|deviation-discrepancy-procedural-published-material-policy|ground-event-encounter-ground-equipment-issue

Synopsis

Air Traffic Controller reported a continued frequency issue resulting in a significant disruption of HCF ATC operations and creating a potential safety hazard.

Narrative

This letter serves as a formal complaint regarding the continued failure of frequency 119.3. We have reported this issue for some time now with minimal resolution. The persistent malfunction of this frequency poses a significant disruption to our air traffic control operations; compromises user experience; and creates a potential safety hazard.Frequency 119.3 is a critical communication channel for operation at the LNY airport. This airport is a non-controlled field that in its own right deserves a control tower due to its volume of operations. At LNY and in the vicinity of KOA Airport and near the island of Maui its unavailability forces us to rely on secondary and backup frequencies; which are often degraded or of lesser quality; range; and capability.Reduced communication clarity: Interference; static; and overall bad quality of the frequency hinder effective transmission of critical information.Operational delays: Difficulty in establishing prompt contact with aircraft causes delays in procedures and the operation.Increased workload for controllers: Managing communication on overcrowded; low quality; and failing frequencies adds to our controller stress and fatigue; potentially increasing the risk of human error. Safety implications: These issues could possibly result in a direct threat to the safety of aircraft; passengers; and crew.Recommendation - The continued failure of 119.3 is unacceptable and demands immediate attention. It must be addressed; and I ask you to please:Investigate the root cause of the frequency malfunction.Implement necessary repairs or replacements to ensure its reliable operation.Provide a timeline for the resolution of this issue.Consider temporary solutions to mitigate the impact on air traffic control operations until the problem is permanently fixed.I understand that technical issues can occur; but the persistent nature of this problem and its impact on aviation safety necessitate urgent action. My hope is for a prompt and effective resolution to this matter.

Second reporter narrative

[Report narrative contained no additional information.]

Source: NASA Aviation Safety Reporting System (public domain). Reports are voluntary submissions and are not verified by NASA.