ELT & 2020

[Ted Christopher]

My RV12 SLSA is due for the two year beacon test, and I have purchased the 2020 GPS antenna from Dynon and want to have that installed as well. Can someone recommend an airport-based avionics shop that can do this work. So far one has told me they will do the ELT test for $150 if I fly to Airlake but don't want to be bothered with the 2020 GPS switchover. A second estimated $150 to $200 for the beacon test alone at KANE. I live north of the Twin Cities, Minnesota.

[rongawer]

I’m confused; if you’re talking about testing your ELT, then all that is required is a 12 month inspection per 91.2017.d that you can do yourself (assuming you have your repairman certificate for your S-LSA), or battery replacement based on either use or age, that any certificated aircraft owner can do. The only two-year test I’m aware of is a 24 month pitot-static test required for IFR flight, but that does not affect the ELT.

I’m not sure where you’re coming up with a two year beacon test; do you have some special maintenance requirement the manufacturer of your ELT specifies?

[Mel]

Originally Posted by rongawer

The only two-year test I’m aware of is a 24 month pitot-static test required for IFR flight, but that does not affect the ELT.

Just for clarification; the transponder must be tested and signed off every 2 years for VFR flight. Maybe that's what he's talking about.

[rongawer]

Good point; it appears I have a one track IFR mind... I get my transponder done with my pitot check.

However, to be really clear, a transponder isn’t a requirement for VFR flight, only required per airspace requirements. So, unless you’re going into C, B and/or A (not likely in a -12), there’s no requirement to have the check done.

[DHeal]

I suspect that virtually all RV-12s are "equipped" with a transponder (likely Mode S). If this transponder is "operable" it must be ON during ALL flight in ALL controlled airspace unless otherwise directed by ATC (FAR 91.215(c)). Such transponders must be inspected i/a/w FARs every two years (FAR 91.413(a)). In my experience, the simple two-year VFR transponder check costs between $80 - $120.

[rongawer]

Originally Posted by DHeal

I suspect that virtually all RV-12s are "equipped" with a transponder (likely Mode S). If this transponder is "operable" it must be ON during ALL flight in ALL controlled airspace unless otherwise directed by ATC (FAR 91.215(c)). Such transponders must be inspected i/a/w FARs every two years (FAR 91.413(a)). In my experience, the simple two-year VFR transponder check costs between $80 - $120.

Wow, that sounds so ominous

...but that would still be C, B or A airspace... Anywhere else, not required.

Aside from that, yup, simple check. Can’t help with finding an avionics shop in Mn. But the good news is, if your 2-year time expires, you can still fly where you need to, as long as it’s outside of class C or B airspace.

[RFSchaller]

Us early guys with D-180s all have mode C Garmin units. I have a mode S in my Cherokee, but without tying it in to a 1090ES setup it adds no value to me. I may fix that some day and tie my FreeFlight RS232 interface into it, but I don?t think it?s worth the bucks since the 978 UAT is fine for my anticipated airspace. Going to mode S in my 12 would require a new XPDR, so it is definitely not worth it to me. I?ll stick to my UAT in the 12.

[Mel]

Originally Posted by rongawer

...but that would still be C, B or A airspace... Anywhere else, not required.

Not quite. Don't forget the mode C veil. Typically a 30 mile radius beneath Class B airspace. Many RV-12s fly in this airspace every day.

[BobTurner]

Originally Posted by Mel

Not quite. Don't forget the mode C veil. Typically a 30 mile radius beneath Class B airspace. Many RV-12s fly in this airspace every day.

For completeness, add in over 10,000?. Not so important back east, but not uncommon out here in the west.

[bruceflys]

From the FAA: Types of Controlled Airspace. Controlled Airspace is a generic term that covers the different classifications of airspace (Class A, B, C, D and E airspace) and defined dimensions within which air traffic control service is provided to IFR flights and to VFR flights in accordance with the airspace classification.

Thus the only airspace, i.e. uncontrolled, where the transponder ON requirement does not exist is Class G, such as under 1200′ AGL. If one removes their transponder, flight in Class D & E would be legal too.