ATA 23

121.5 MHz ELT Deadline Reminder
The FAA issued a notice in August 2005 reminding operators that satellite processing of distress signals from 121.5 and 243 MHz emergency locator transmitters (ELTs) is scheduled to end on February 1, 2009. Operators will have to switch to ELTs operating at 406 MHz, which are more reliable and provide search-and-rescue (SAR) agencies more complete information for detection by satellites. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association (NOAA) reports that about 99 percent of the 121.5- MHz distress signals it receives each year are false alerts. As a result, rescuers normally wait for extra satellite passes over the alert area or some other verification of an actual emergency before activating a 121.5- MHz SAR response. The delay can mean hours before a SAR mission is initiated for a 121.5-MHz distress alert. In contrast, the response time for a 406-MHz alert is measured in minutes. Because a 406-MHz beacon transmits its own unique digital identification code, the registered owner can be contacted for verification of an actual alert or asked to turn off a 406-MHz beacon transmitting a false alert signal. Quick verification capability means that in the event of a real emergency SAR personnel can be quickly mobilized.