When Vueling approached STORADIO/Stockholm Radio, they were looking for a way to obtain a complete and accurate understanding of the HF and SELCAL status across their entire fleet. Although crews performed checks on individual aircraft, the airline did not have a consolidated overview that showed how HF communication systems were performing in day-to-day operations. Without that visibility, it was difficult to prioritise retests, identify recurring issues, or address aircraft that required additional attention.
Over the course of several weeks, Vueling and STORADIO worked closely together on a coordinated programme of HF and SELCAL testing. Checks were carried out both in the air and on the ground. By the end of the campaign, Vueling had a complete operational snapshot of the entire fleet. Thirty-eight aircraft passed all checks successfully. Another 17 aircraft, which initially produced preliminary results that warranted refinement of the testing procedure, later passed once more refined procedural guidance had been implemented. The remaining twenty-one aircraft were prioritised for follow-up in upcoming operational windows.
This overview provided more than just numbers. It gave Vueling an actionable baseline and a real understanding of the operational readiness level of each aircraft, which required standard analytical follow-up, and where procedural improvements could make a measurable difference. It also allowed them to approach HF and SELCAL reliability proactively rather than reactively with STORADIO providing continuous support throughout the process.
The operational impact of the project became especially clear once Vueling’s procedures were aligned with the guidance provided by STORADIO. Detailed instructions covering HF frequency selection, propagation planning, optimal call timing, and a step-by-step SELCAL process were incorporated directly into Vueling’s internal Flight Operations documentation. These updates were communicated to pilots, added to the cockpit preparation flow, and integrated into the company’s standard HF and SELCAL testing guidance.
Once these procedures reached the crews, the improvement was immediate. The success rate of the checks increased, in-flight HF propagation tests became more consistent, and repeated NO CONTACT or NO REPLY situations decreased significantly. Trend data shared by Vueling confirmed that the checks became far more reliable after the harmonised procedures were introduced.
At the same time, pilot training and familiarity with HF also improved. Crews became more comfortable with how the HF radio behaves, how propagation influences call quality, and how to choose suitable frequencies during different phases of flight. This renewed focus encouraged more regular use of HF, reinforcing its role as a dependable long-range communication channel. Even with the growth of datalink and SATCOM systems, HF remains an essential and resilient backup method. Increased crew confidence in HF ultimately contributes to safer and more predictable operations across the fleet.
With the initial phase completed, Vueling is now moving into retesting and follow-up. STORADIO will continue to support these efforts and ensure that the improvements achieved so far become a consistent long-term standard.
This collaboration shows how effective results can be achieved when airline operations and HF specialists work together toward a shared objective. The outcome is more reliable communication, clearer procedures, and a fleet that crews and dispatchers can rely on with confidence.
If your airline needs support with HF or SELCAL testing, reach out to STORADIO and we will help coordinate a complete and efficient programme tailored to your operations.
