Antennas

During post-flight inspection, cracks were discovered on the ELTs rod antenna, approximately six inches from the base. The #2 GPS lost signal during an RNAV approach, generating a warning on the Garmin G1000. An operator noted it had experienced four-plus failures of the whip antenna installed for the Artex ME406 ELT. Flight experienced en route loss of GPS reception on all four devices, including a GTN 750/650 installation plus two portable WAAS GPS receivers. The GNS 430W indicated no satellite coverage while in flight. A portable GPS also indicated lost coverage.

Key Takeaways:

• Antenna failures, for both ELT and GPS systems, are commonly attributed to manufacturing defects or improper installation practices, including material voids, uncrimped connectors, and insufficient sealing.
• Some ELT antenna models exhibit recurring failures, with instances of antennas detaching and posing potential hazards.
• A critical issue identified is that failing GPS antennas can generate interference, actively jamming and causing a complete loss of signal for all other GPS receivers within the aircraft.

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