handheld aviation radio for backpacker?

wrote:
PS -- I know it's also illegal to operate an airband radio for a
nonaviation purpose, but I figure I should not be too worried about
that, if they really intend to use it in for an emergency only.


Well, if its just an emergency "call for help" scenario, they would
probably be better served with a decent CB hand-held radio. The range
can potentially be much better and the chance of getting hold of
someone on those frequencies is much greater. Make sure thay have
GPS so they can provide coordinates ans spare batteries.