Phaseout of 121.5-MHz ELTs Appears Likely

Stephen Pope

Tuesday, March 12, 2013 at 08:12 PM ET

Verified

Key Takeaways:

The FCC is proposing to phase out 121.5-MHz Emergency Locator Transmitters (ELTs) by banning their manufacture, sale, and eventually their use, in favor of new 406-MHz satellite-based technology.
This long-sought transition is gaining momentum as the international Cospas-Sarsat system stopped processing 121.5-MHz signals in 2009 and more aircraft owners are upgrading.
The proposal includes a one-year grandfather period for manufacturers and distributors before a specific date to prohibit the continued use of 121.5-MHz ELTs.
Most aviation groups, like AEA and AOPA, support the move, though the EAA is working to oppose a mandated transition while still encouraging members to upgrade when needed.

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The Federal Communications Commission is seeking comments by April 1 on a plan to phase out 121.5-MHz emergency locator transmitters in favor of new satellite-based technology. This time it looks like the FCC could get its wish.

The proposal is really nothing new considering the FCC has been seeking a ban on the manufacture, sale and use of 121.5-MHz ELTs for several years. The difference this time is that opposition to the plan appears to be waning as more parts of the world are requiring the new 406-MHz ELTs and more aircraft owners are upgrading to the technology.