Archive for February 26th, 2009
The Latest in Emergency Locator Transmitters
The most common method in which planes are located following a crash is through use of an emergency locator transmitter (ELT). But ELTs transmit on different frequencies, the newest model being at 406 MHz. The older models, which transmitted at a 121.5 MHz frequency, are no longer being monitored by satellite tracking. Because satellite tracking is the leading method in which airplanes are tracked following a crash, it can be dangerous to not have the updated 406 ELT.
With a 406 ELT, emergency rescue services can pinpoint your location to within about 100 yards. This is essential for rescue operations, and when rescuers have an accurate idea of where you landed, aid will come much faster. For those people who like to be extra safe, you can purchase multi-frequency ELTs that transmit at 406, 243, and 121.5 MHz.