filalb has it right, without a licensed radio station the aircraft is not authorised to transmit or receive so it isn't legally permissible for it to fly.
Yup, for a public transport aircraft, certainly correct.
The US FCC issues the radio station license for all US registered aircraft, and that license is good for ten years.
For GA aircraft, flying domestically in the USA, a radio station license is not required.
Internationally?
Yup, sure is.
I just paid $75 for mine.
Good for ten years.
How long did it take to issue same?
Two business days, received in the mail, after applying online.
The FCC is switched on, big time.
My tax dollars at work....
