Support for 121.5 and 243 MHz EPIRBs to be discontinued

 
The International Sarsat-Cospas Program announced it will terminate satellite processing of distress signals from 121.5 and 243 MHz emergency position indicating radio beacons (EPIRBs) on February 1, 2009. The regulation applies to all 121.5 and 243 MHz Class A, B and S EPIRBs Note that as of January 1, 2007, the operation of 121.5 and 243 MHz EPIRBs will be prohibited. The more accurate 406 MHz EPIRBs will now be the only type of EPIRB that the Sarsat-Cospas system will respond to. GPS-equipped 406 EPIRBS are even more accurate and are recommended for all voyagers.

By Ocean Navigator