EASA SIB 2025-02: Nuisance Alerts from Distress Tracking Systems

What to do

Operators, production organisations, and approved maintenance organisations should train personnel on correct ELT(DT) handling, avoid manual activation except during tests, and follow DAH instructions during maintenance to prevent nuisance alerts. Any unintended activations must be reported promptly to the Design Approval Holder and competent authorities following the provided guidelines. Testing should use designated test modes, and nuisance alerts should be stopped before aircraft takeoff. No mandatory compliance deadlines are specified as the bulletin provides recommendations only.

Summary

EASA Safety Information Bulletin No. 2025-02 is an informational document addressing nuisance alerts from distress tracking systems, specifically Emergency Locator Transmitters of Distress Tracking type (ELT(DT)) installed on certain aeroplanes. It applies to EASA operators, third country operators, production organisations, and approved maintenance organisations of aircraft equipped with distress tracking systems required by ICAO Annex 6 Part I section 6.18 or Commission Regulation (EU) No 965/2012. The bulletin highlights issues related to nuisance activations of these systems and provides guidance to limit false alerts and improve reporting.

What changed

This new bulletin introduces awareness about the increase in nuisance alerts caused by the recent introduction of ELT(DT) systems and outlines the causes such as inappropriate handling and maintenance practices. It emphasizes the importance of following Design Approval Holder instructions to avoid inadvertent activations and provides detailed recommendations for operators and maintenance organisations to manage and report nuisance alerts effectively.

Why it matters

Nuisance alerts from distress tracking systems consume valuable search and rescue resources and may delay response to genuine emergencies. Aviation professionals must understand the causes and prevention methods to reduce false activations, ensuring operational safety and regulatory compliance. Proper reporting of nuisance alerts helps manufacturers and authorities identify and resolve design or procedural issues, enhancing overall system reliability.