[Scan-DC] Overheard emergencies on 121.5

[David L. Wilson]

On 7/16/2018 10:19 AM, John Wilson wrote:
> It's not common to hear them as it was in the past.  I recall hearing 
> two comms involving inexperienced pilots receiving help regarding 
> finding the closest airport and help talking them down. What also more 
> common years ago were open transmitters on a private aircraft of which 
> the pilots were not aware.  On several occasions I recall calling the 
> Richmond AP reporting such.  You could watch the receiver's S meter as 
> his/her's signal locked on 121.5 mhz. and increase to a peak and then 
> weaken and was out of range.  With current global satellite SAR 
> capability, I doubt it is used in the US.  I don't think the FAA 
> facilities monitor 121.5 mhz. or 243.0 mhz. anymore. 

It is still the primary voice emergency frequency with other non-voice 
devices moved elsewhere and monitored by agencies as such.  It is also 
used to alert aircraft moving into restricted airspace.
--
David L. Wilson
dwilson314 at verizon.net