As reported in past issues, the international search and rescue community has decided to stop satellite monitoring of 121.5 MHz ELTs in 2009 and they are advocating mandatory equipage of aircraft with 406MHz ELTs at a high cost of about $4,000 (Cdn), including installation. COPA has been advocating for an affordable alternative for some time, and we are actively participating on a working group, along with Transport Canada and the Department of National Defence to find a solution. At a recent meeting of the working group, it was decided to proceed with a request for government funding for an independent contractor to investigate the alternatives to a fixed 406MHz ELT. Transport Canada is the sponsor and COPA to be the proponent. Meanwhile, a DND contract to develop a low-cost 121.5/406MHz ELT has just completed the prototype phase, with testing beginning this Fall, aiming at completion of a certified unit by December 2003. The contractor has stated that they believe they can develop a production version in the $600 (US) to $1,500 range. Of course, installation would be extra. So, some progress is being made to bring the cost down but it remains of concern. Contact Kevin Psutka.