Question : Best method for two-way air/ground communication for GA aircraft that doesn’t require ground station license?
I am a pilot looking for a way to communicate legally with a person on the ground (close range/line of sight). A portable aviation radio is not an option as it requires a ground station license when used outside of an aircraft. Would like to avoid 2 meter because of its license requirement as well. Do two-way FRS/GMRS radios like those sold at Radio Shack work for this application? Is there another technology?
John, thank you for your answer. I am aware of the GMRS license and would happily pay the fee if I knew the radio would work for my purpose. I will check out the links you provided. Thanks for your help.
Just for reference, I came across a post by Bob Gardner (author of Say Again, Please) on Usenet:

Unicom and multicom stations are licensed to use those frequencies. There are no aviation frequencies for the kind of use you propose. Go buy a couple of those walkie-talkies they sell just about everywhere and use them.

I gather from the suggestion that he feels the radios could work, technically, I will give them a try.
frs two way radio

Best answer:

Answer by John W
GMRS requires a license. The FRS-only channels (7-14) typically can be used without a license.