General aviation pilot on IFR flight plan reports interference on SAV approach frequency 125.3 with RDU departure. RDU is very loud requiring SAV to repeat instructions.
Synopsis
General aviation pilot on IFR flight plan reports interference on SAV approach frequency 125.3 with RDU departure. RDU is very loud requiring SAV to repeat instructions.
Narrative
I was IFR though weather was VMC; approaching Statesboro Airport (TBR) from the north; descending from 8;000 FT to 5;000 FT then later to 2;000 FT MSL. When switched to Savannah; GA; Approach on 125.3; I noticed that while I could communicate with Savannah; I could also hear Raleigh; NC; Approach on the same frequency. A few times while Savannah was transmitting an ATC instruction; the Raleigh TRACON would also begin transmitting simultaneously; thus 'blocking' or 'stepping on' the Savannah instruction. This occurred repeatedly while approaching TBR. Perhaps the severity of this effect is dependent on altitude; radio type; weather; and/or other factors. However; in my opinion; the frequency 125.3 should not be used by both Savannah and Raleigh; since they are apparently close enough geographically for some aircraft controlled by Savannah to receive Raleigh. This issue; if unresolved; could result in missed or garbled communication with ATC. Callback conversation with Reporter revealed the following information: This was the first time the reporter had been to this area and the first time the interference encountered. He has not been back and cannot state if this is a common occurrence.
Source: NASA Aviation Safety Reporting System (public domain). Reports are voluntary submissions and are not verified by NASA.