121.5 Monitoring
 

Could anyone tell me whether aircrew are required to monitor 121.5 at all times? If we do, is it promulgated in CAP413?

Airmanship and good practice arguments aside my company does not require us to do so. Even if it did, with only two radios we could not maintain a continuous listening watch.

HP

Did You fly into EGSS this morning Mr Vacuum Cleaner?

Z

It is recommended by IFALPA in the current security climate. Whether it is always possible to do is obviously dependent on aircraft radio fit, other tasks etc.

As an atc unit, we have the facility to moniter and transmit on 121.5, but I would be reluctant to answer a transmission on the frequency unless:
1) I knew that the station was unable to establish 2 way contact with D & D or an airborne/surface rescue unit, or,
2) I had been asked to act as an intermediatory.

I would suggest that the same applies to pilots.

Good intentions often lead to unnecessary confusion!:eek: