What is the generic term for the radio channel to use at airports without an operating control tower?

The generic term for the radio channel to use at airports without an operating control tower is known as CTAF, which stands for Common Traffic Advisory Frequency. This frequency is designated for the purposes of facilitating communication among pilots operating in the vicinity of an uncontrolled airport.

When pilots use the CTAF, they announce their intentions—such as when they are landing, taking off, or taxiing—ensuring that other pilots in the area can be aware of each other's actions, thereby enhancing safety by reducing the risk of mid-air collisions or runway incursions.

In contrast, UNICOM is a term that generally refers to a non-towered frequency used at many airports primarily for communicating with ground services rather than for traffic advisories among pilots. While both CTAF and UNICOM can be used at airports without control towers, CTAF specifically serves the purpose of coordinating aircraft movements.

AWS refers to Automatic Weather System, which is not related to traffic advisories, and TWR stands for Tower, representing the frequency used at airports with operating control towers. Thus, understanding the specific function of CTAF is key to effective communication at airports without an operating control tower.