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) in favor of more effective 406-MHz satellite-based technology, as the older frequency is no longer processed by international satellite systems.
This latest effort to ban the older ELTs has a higher chance of success due to waning opposition and increasing adoption of 406-MHz units globally.
The FCC's plan includes a one-year grandfather period for manufacturers, distributors, and importers, followed by a specific date to prohibit the continued use of 121.5-MHz ELTs in service.
While some aviation organizations like AEA and AOPA have expressed support or a "measured approach," the EAA opposes a *mandated* transition, even as it encourages members to upgrade when replacing old units.

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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.