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.

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FAA Mandates Better Voice and Flight Data Recorders
The FAA is mandating updated aircraft cockpit voice and flight data recorders for airplanes with 10 or more seats and operating under Parts 121, 125 or 135. These improved devices–which are due by March 7, 2012, for in-service airplanes–will yield more data for accident and incident investigators. The rule also mandates these enhancements on all newly built aircraft and helicopters after March 7, 2010. Under the final rule, all CVRs must record the last two hours of cockpit audio instead of the current 15 to 30 minutes; have an independent backup power source for the CVRs to allow continued recording for nine to 11 minutes if all aircraft power sources are lost or interrupted; and use solid-state technology instead of magnetic tape. Also under the new rule, FDRs need to measure aircraft data more frequently than is now required, as well as retain the last 25 hours of recorded information.

ATA 23

Adhesive Change
It has been brought to our attention that the Dayton-Granger adhesive referenced in the AMM may cause corrosion between the static wick base and the aluminum skin of the aircraft. AMM Reference, 23-60-00 page 401 item 2.-B.-(2). Replace the adhesive/sealant (Dayton-Granger P/N) P/B 16307 with (Dayton-Granger P/N) P/B 15348.

This change will be incorporated in the next revision of the AMM

ATA 23

ELT Wiring
If you are approaching an 800-hr. “C” inspection, plan on at least installing the wiring for the Emergency Locator Transmitter (ELT). This requirement becomes effective January 1, 2004. The new 406 MHz unit will be required in 2009, but it is twice as expensive as the old 121.5 MHz unit, which is still approved.