>My ELT manual states that if the antenna is being used on an non metallic surface, such as wood or fiberglass, A ground plane must also be installed. The >Mark Jones (N886MJ) ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
My main com antenna does not require a ground plane and works quite well. They are advertised in sport aviation and go for about $100+. I often hear transmissions from 50+ miles away and I'm always loud and clear from the local towers at 15+ miles and I'm using a handheld. http://www.advancedaircraft.com/ For my ELT antenna ground plane I used "tin foil" from my wife's kitchen. My antenna is mounted to a floor cross-member behind the seat about 24" or so. I used "spray adheasive" to mount the foil and then made sure it had good contact with the antenna base mount (ground). It makes my handheld radio SCREAM when I test the ELT so I guess it's working. Some discussion took place on mounting, inside vs. outside. For best aerodynamics mount all antennas inside if possible. In addition, for the ELT, I'd want mine mounted inside in a KR (non-metalic) so there is less chance of it turning to "rubble" at just the time when you need it. Larry Flesner
