RAMI AV-17 VHF Communication Antenna

The RAMI AV-17 VHF Communication Antenna is an externally mounted aircraft antenna designed for reliable air-to-ground VHF voice communications across the 118–137 MHz aviation frequency band. Featuring a low-profile, swept-element design and a four-bolt mounting base, the AV-17 is engineered specifically for installation on the underside of an aircraft.

Manufactured by RAMI, the AV-17 combines an omnidirectional radiation pattern, vertical polarisation and a 50-ohm nominal impedance with a durable aerodynamic configuration suitable for aircraft operating at speeds up to 350 mph and altitudes up to 50,000 feet.

The antenna is approved under FAA TSO-C37d and TSO-C38d and is identified by RAMI as a direct replacement for the Comant CI-122.

Key Features & Benefits

• Dedicated VHF Communications Antenna – Designed for airborne communications within the 118–137 MHz aviation frequency range.
• Optimised for Underside Installation – Specifically engineered for mounting beneath the aircraft, providing an effective radiation pattern for air-to-ground communications.
• Omnidirectional Coverage – Vertical polarisation and an omnidirectional radiation pattern support communication in all horizontal directions.
• Aerodynamic Design – Low-profile, swept-element configuration with a specified drag force of just 0.66 lb at 250 mph.
• High-Speed Capability – Designed for aircraft operating at speeds up to 350 mph and altitudes up to 50,000 ft.
• Four-Bolt Mounting Base – Secure mechanical mounting arrangement with dimensions provided in the manufacturer’s installation drawing.
• Standard BNC Connection – Equipped with a female BNC RF connector for connection to a compatible aircraft communication system.
• FAA TSO Authorisation – Meets the applicable TSO-C37d and TSO-C38d requirements specified by RAMI.
• Direct CI-122 Replacement – Identified by RAMI as a direct replacement for the Comant CI-122 antenna.

Designed for Air-to-Ground Communications

The RAMI AV-17 is purpose-built for aircraft VHF communication installations requiring an externally mounted antenna.

Its 118–137 MHz operating frequency range covers the specified aviation VHF communications band, while its vertically polarised, omnidirectional radiation pattern is designed to support air-to-ground communications.

The antenna’s underside mounting arrangement provides an appropriate installation configuration for this application, with a swept radiating element and aerodynamic base designed for aircraft operation.

With a maximum VSWR of 3.0:1, nominal 50-ohm impedance and 30-watt RF power capacity, the AV-17 offers defined electrical characteristics for integration with compatible airborne communication equipment.

Aerodynamic Construction & Installation

The AV-17 incorporates a four-bolt mounting base and a swept antenna element. Its design is intended to minimise aerodynamic drag while maintaining the radiation characteristics required for VHF communications.

RAMI specifies a drag force of 0.66 lb at 250 mph, with the antenna designed for aircraft operating at speeds up to 350 mph.

The antenna has a maximum height of 9.0 inches and an overall length of approximately 21.3 inches.

Installation dimensions, mounting-hole spacing and antenna orientation are illustrated in the manufacturer’s technical drawing. Installation should be carried out in accordance with applicable aircraft-approved data and regulatory requirements.

Replacement for Comant CI-122

According to RAMI, the AV-17 is a direct replacement for the Comant CI-122.

This makes the AV-17 a replacement option for existing installations using the CI-122, subject to verification of the aircraft’s approved configuration, installation requirements and applicable documentation.

The AV-17 uses a four-bolt mounting arrangement and a female BNC connector.

Available Finishes

RAMI offers the AV-17 antenna in three finish configurations:

• AV-17 – Gloss White
• AV-17(-GB) – Gloss Black
• AV-17(-B) – CARC Black

This product listing refers to the standard AV-17 Gloss White configuration unless otherwise specified.

Certification & Airworthiness

The RAMI AV-17 is listed by the manufacturer under FAA TSO-C37d and TSO-C38d.

TSO authorisation establishes that the antenna meets the applicable minimum performance standards. It does not, by itself, constitute approval for installation on every aircraft type.

Before installation, aircraft owners, maintenance organisations and avionics installers should verify the applicable installation approval, aircraft compatibility and documentation requirements.

Why Choose the RAMI AV-17?

For aircraft operators and maintenance professionals requiring a VHF communications antenna, the RAMI AV-17 offers a combination of established technical specifications, FAA TSO authorisation and a manufacturer-designated replacement relationship with the Comant CI-122.

Its low-profile underside mounting design, four-bolt attachment, BNC connection and defined operating characteristics make it a practical choice for suitable new installations and antenna replacements.

RAMI AV-17 – A purpose-built VHF communications antenna for dependable air-to-ground communication applications.