Listen Up! If You Don’t Have A 406MHz ELT, Your Signals May Not Be Monitored

February 2025

Sixteen years ago, in February of 2009, the international monitoring of 121.5/243MHz ELT (Emergency Locator Transmitter) signals ended.

Since then, the only way to locate a downed aircraft without a 406MHz ELT is by using ground-based receivers or by spotting the wreckage from an aircraft flying overhead. While these legacy ELTs remain legal under FAA regulations, their effectiveness in aiding crash recovery is severely limited.

Canadian 406MHz ELT Mandate Effective November 25, 2025

Canada will implement a critical safety mandate requiring all aircraft operating within its airspace, including foreign-registered aircraft, to be equipped with a 406MHz ELT by November 25, 2025. This advanced technology enhances emergency response by transmitting precise location data to search and rescue teams.

For further details, you can review the regulations outlined by the Canadian Aviation Administration. Access the full text here.  https://laws-lois.justice.gc.ca/eng/regulations/SOR-96-433/FullText.html#s-605.38

Installation Requirements For 406MHz ELTs

Upgrading to a 406MHz ELT involves replacing the existing unit and installing a compatible antenna, typically a blade-style model for most Part 25 aircraft. Depending on the aircraft and its current system, the complexity of the installation process can vary.

A Nav interface unit is an option you should consider. It integrates with the aircraft’s GPS or FMS to transmit the last known latitude and longitude allowing search and rescue teams to locate a downed aircraft quicker. This interface will require additional wiring and equipment, depending on the current system configuration.

Beacon Registration And Maintenance

Once the new ELT is installed, the beacon must be re-registered every two years through the NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration). This process is straightforward and can be completed online at beaconregistration.noaa.gov.

While FAA regulations still permit the use of 121.5MHz ELTs, transitioning to the 406 MHz system will significantly improve flight safety and compliance with international mandates.

You should consider upgrading well before the Canadian deadline to ensure uninterrupted operations and enhanced emergency response capabilities.

For more information about upgrading your ELT, reach out to me anytime.

To schedule your ELT upgrade, contact your nearest Duncan Aviation Satellite (https://duncanaviation.aero/locations/#satellites) or call Mark Winter, Avionics Regional Sales Manager, at +1 402.470.4670, or via email, Mark.Winter@DuncanAviation.com.