The Mexican government has extended the deadline for installing 406 MHz ELTs in light aircraft. AOPA requested the extension during a March meeting with the leader of the Mexican Civil Aviation Authority.
The extension, which was published Aug. 10, gives aircraft operators until June 30, 2018, to install the equipment in piston-powered privately owned aircraft with a maximum takeoff weight of less than 12,566 pounds. AOPA had requested the extension to give the aviation industry time to develop technologies that might serve as less expensive alternatives to installing a costly 406 MHz ELT.
“We are pleased that the Mexican government has extended the deadline, making it easier and more affordable for general aviation aircraft to continue flying in Mexico,” said AOPA President Mark Baker. “When aircraft can fly without installing costly, and in many ways redundant, equipment, people and businesses on both sides of the border benefit.”
Baker met with Mexican Civil Aviation Authority Director General Gilberto Lopez Meyer on March 27 to discuss ways to improve the border crossing experience and encourage general aviation activity in both countries. They agreed to work together to improve coordination and information sharing, simplify the process for obtaining multiple entry permits to Mexico, create a way to notify pilots when they have incurred airspace fees, and allow pilots to pay the fees without requiring the help of a third-party with access to a local bank account. AOPA is also working with Mexican authorities to find ways to simplify and coordinate Advance Passenger Information System (APIS) filings for pilots traveling between the United States and Mexico.
