Can I listen to 121.5 MHz?
The NOTAM states that, ‘all aircraft operating in the United States national airspace, if capable, shall maintain a listening watch on VHF guard 121.5 or UHF 243.0. ‘ The value of 121.5 is that someone is always listening—every ATC facility monitors it.
What is special about 121.5 MHz?
121.5 MHz is generally reserved for civilian distress or emergency use, with 243MHz used for military operations (although you do hear military aircraft also on 121.5 MHz). If ATC (Air Traffic Control) are unable to reach aircraft on their assigned frequency they will try to call them on guard frequency.
What is the 121.5 frequency?
The frequencies are 121.5 MHz for civilian, also known as International Air Distress (IAD) or VHF Guard, and 243.0 MHz—the second harmonic of VHF guard—for military use, also known as Military Air Distress (MAD) or UHF Guard.
What is the mayday frequency?
121.5 MHz
NBAA members should be aware that the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Enforcement Bureau is working with the FAA to investigate the misuse of – and harmful interference to – the “Mayday” frequency of 121.5 MHz, said Sarah Wolf, NBAA senior manager of security and facilitation.
What is emergency frequency used for?
Although the frequency in use or other frequencies assigned by ATC are preferable, the following emergency frequencies can be used for distress or urgency communications, if necessary or desirable: 121.5 MHz and 243.0 MHz. Both have a range generally limited to line of sight.
What frequency is FEMA on?
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
| Frequency | Type | Alpha Tag |
|---|---|---|
| 406.26250 | RM | FEMA 1/2 |
| 407.06250 | RM | FEMA 3/4 |
| 407.66250 | RM | FEMA 5/6 |
| 409.06250 | RM | FEMA 7/8 |