GPS Tracking devices for GA aircraft

[Gravytrain]

I have had the pleasure(!) of finding out from the FAA exactly what "determination" means, and the explanation from them was as I described.

Granted, the rules are specifically for IFR at the moment, but with the increasing invasion of cockpits by new technologies, both the FAA and EASA are reviewing aspects of the PED regulations and a clearer certification required is expected in 2nd quarter 2010.

The point is that authorities recognize that there is potential safety issues, but have yet to take definitive steps to require manufactures to adhere to the DO160 (and other) standards.

Whilst the use of non-approved engine parts will have most operators and pilots agreeing on the safety risks, the potential risks of high-powered transmitting devices are not generally understood by the aviation public.

Basically:

1. there are standards which ensure that avionic equipment (including portable devices) don't compromise aircraft safety
2. some tracking systems have met these standards and some haven't (and probably couldn't)
3. there are real risks associated with using non-approved equipment in an aircraft (even a non-sophisticated one)
4. there will always be cowboys who try to bend or circumvent the regulations

Make an informed decision.

BTW, some of Ryanair's fleet has been upgraded with a mobile phone relay. It is a DO-160 approved piece of equipment that acts as a mobile phone receiver, and then relays the transmission to ground stations via satellite communication. The satellite comms are the reason for the additional pricing of €0.50 for text messages and between €2.00 and €3.00 per minute to make and receive calls. Your mobile phone operates on a lower transmission wattage due to the close proximity of the receiver, reducing the possibility of interference. Mobile phones are still prohibited from use in aircraft not equipped with a mobile phone relays.