Transport Canada officials have confirmed that emergency locator transmitters are mandatory on all aircraft in Canada.
"This enhanced technology is more reliable and superior in locating and identifying a distressed aircraft," a spokesperson stated in an e-mail.
"Emergency locator transmitter equipment is a lifeline to search and rescue services, which are provided by the Department of National Defence, and helps save lives."
The issue has come to the forefront following the disappearance of a small plane on Wednesday morning in Southern Labrador.
The Piper twin-engine aircraft operated by North Wind Aviation was flying from Happy Valley-Goose Bay to Cartwright. Two occupants - a pilot and passenger - were onboard.
The pilot radioed his intentions to land at Cartwright at about 10:30 a.m., but the plane did not arrive.
It's believed the plane was about 110 kilometres from Cartwright when the radio message was received.
Search and rescue efforts have been hampered by inclement weather.
Sources have confirmed that the transmitter had recently been removed from the plane in order to be repaired.
And officials with the Joint Rescue Co-ordination Centre in Halifax say a Hercules military aircraft flying over the search area has been unsuccessful in its attempts to pick up an emergency signal.
Emergency transmitters mandatory on planes, says Transport Canada
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Published on
May 28, 2010
- Published on July 1, 2010
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Staff ~ The Telegram
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