What is the national aeronautical SAR scene of action frequency?

• A. 123.1 MHz
• B. 121.5 MHz
• C. 138.78 MHz
• D. 157.1 MHz

Answer: (A)

In SAR operations, there’s a designated coordination channel that all rescuers use to share positions, intentions, and updates while the mission is underway. This frequency is chosen so that aircraft, ships, and ground teams can stay in sync without stepping on distress channels or unrelated air-to-air or ATC chatter.

The best answer is 123.1 MHz because it is the standard aeronautical frequency assigned for the SAR scene of action. It provides a common, monitored channel for coordinating multiple assets within the search area, enabling efficient tasking and deconfliction in real time.

Why the other options aren’t the right fit: 121.5 MHz is the international distress frequency reserved for emergencies and ELTs, not for routine SAR coordination. 138.78 MHz is a general aviation or ATC-type channel and not specifically the SAR coordination channel. 157.1 MHz lies in the marine VHF band and is used for ship-to-ship or coastal marine communications, not aeronautical SAR coordination.