SC-229 – 406 MHz Emergency Locator Transmitters (ELTs), established December 18, 2013, is working to update DO-204 standards addressing the latest design, performance, installation and operational issues for 406 MHz emergency beacons. These standards should be useful to users, designers, manufacturers, and installers of ELTs and will help ensure a more standardized approach in these systems and the installations approval process. The revision to DO-204 is warranted for several reasons: First, Cospas-Sarsat is upgrading its satellite ELT detection system by placing search and rescue transponders on new GPS, GLONASS, and GALILEO satellites. These new transponders will dramatically improve the speed and accuracy of ELTs. Second, analysis of recent aircraft accidents has created a call from air safety investigators as well as the National Search and Rescue Committee to develop standards for pre-accident automatic ELT activation. Third, GPS technology now allows ELTs to provide accurate accident positioning to first responders. Development of GPS requirements for use in ELTs will help standardize this valuable tool.

For additional meeting summaries, please contact the Program Director: Rebecca Morrison