Personal Locator Beacons (PLBs) are becoming cheaper and more reliable. Why would a pilot need a PLB if they already have an onboard ELT? How would a PLB help a pilot in an emergency? What is a PLB anyway?
Most pilots are aware of the onboard Emergency Locator Transmitter (ELT) in their personal or rented airplane. Most know that the older models transmitted a distress signal on 121.5-MHz in the event of a hard landing. But how many know what frequency the new models transmit on? How does an ELT differ from a PLB? Do you know the differences in who receives your distress signal and how quickly?
In this seminar, Herb Patten, SCFC's Advanced Ground Instructor will explain the critical differences between PLBs and ELTs. He will review the history of the emergence of the regulations on ELTs, review accident data that highlights the problems and challenges of the original ELT design, describe the enhancements offered in the new 406-MHz ELT and how they function, and provide an update on proposed regulations for ELT requirements. Additionally, Herb will compare and contrast various PLB solutions on the market.
Herb Patten is an FAA certificated master advanced and instrument ground instructor. He holds a private pilot certificate with an instrument rating, has over 800 hours and flown into 111 different California airports. He is a board member of the San Carlos Pilot Association, SCAPA, co-founder of the Bay Area Student and New Pilot group, and an executive member of the Upwind Summer Scholarship Program steering committee. When not giving presentations he can be found in the air pursuing his aviation interest or supporting others in their flying adventures.
This event qualifies for FAA Wings credit, click here to register.
Any questions, contact us at (650) 946-1700 or info@sancarlosflight.com.
San Carlos Flight Center is committed to promoting safety in general aviation through our evening safety seminar programs. Space is often limited so it is important to sign up early through the FAA event notification system at FAASAFETY.GOV. SCFC members may choose to watch the seminar live over the web at home. Contact your SCFC member service rep at (650) 946-1700 to confirm secure online access to any particular seminar.