PA-28 Cherokee/Archer/Dakota/Pillan/Warrior
Flight Crew Instrument; Flight Crew Flight Instructor; Flight Crew Commercial
Flight Crew Last 90 Days 100; Flight Crew Total 23000; Flight Crew Type 4000
ATC Issue All Types
General None Reported / Taken
ATC Equipment / Nav Facility / Buildings; Environment - Non Weather Related
Jacksonville Center's radio coverage at Vidalia; GA and Reidsville; GA is limited to about 2;000 to 3;000 MSL; or about 2;000 AGL. Most of the terrain in this area is about 200 feet above sea level. The problem is we are at the very edge of radio reception on certain frequencies. The designated frequency for ZJX at RVJ and VDI is 127.57. This frequency works best when the remote transmitter at Alma; GA and AMG (VOR and airport co-located) is operational. The problem is this remote transmitter is frequently out of service. When remote is working we can pick up ZJX on 127.57 down to about 2;000 MSL. When not in operation aircraft must be at or above 3;000 MSL and it is still spotty reception on 127.57. The next closest frequency for JAX is 132.5. The remote transmitter for this frequency is located at Millen; GA. Millen is about the same distance (30 to 40 miles from VDI as AMG); but it seems we are able to pick up ZJX on this frequency constantly down to about 1;500 MSL.My question is how do we go about making an official request to get the 132.5 frequency for VDI and RVJ? It will greatly improve safety and communications in VMC and IMC conditions when aircraft must descend below 1;000 or even 1;500 AGL for approaches. There have been numerous occasions when relays through other aircraft have been required to maintain contact with ZJX during instrument approaches and cancelling IFR flight plans and VFR flight following into VDI and RVJ. I am certain this must be frustrating for the center controllers as well as transient aircraft passing through our area.
PA28 pilot reports that the designated frequency for ZJX at RJV and VDI airports is not usable below 2;000 FT while frequency 132.5 can be used down to 1;000 FT. It is suggested that the FAA make 132.5 the designated frequency.