After February 1st, 2009, Emergency Locator Transmitters (ELTs) operating on the 121.5 and 243 MHz will not be monitored by the COSPAS-SARSAT satellite system. There are many false distress signals and searches initiated each year with ELTs. The newer 406 MHz ELTs transmit unique aircraft information allowing authorities to contact an aircraft owner before a search is initiated. Therefore, 406 MHz significantly decrease the amount of unnecessary searches.

While 121.5 MHz is the international distress signal, it has limitations in relation to the search and rescue efforts that would follow the activation of this frequency by an ELT. Accuracy to a crash site of an aircraft with a 121 MHz ELT can be up to 20 miles. With the enhanced performance of the 406 MHz ELT and programmed aircraft information, accuracy is improved to 2 miles.

After February 2009, the 121/243 distress signals will only be detected by ground based receivers such as air traffic control, local airports, or other aircraft. Therefore, the search and rescue efforts related to an aircraft with an older ELT could be limited and will take longer, especially in a remote location.

Some aircraft owners do not respond positively towards FAA mandates. The February 1st 2009 ELT date is not a deadline to comply with any sort of ELT mandate. As mentioned, this date only applies the discontinuance of 121/243 ELT monitoring by the COSPAS-SARSAT satellite system. Therefore, aircraft owners must decide what value to place on their safety and survival should they be put in an emergency situation where the ELT would be activated.