ELT (Emergency Locator Transmitters)

Question 1

What does an ELT do?

Answer 1

They are designed to transmit a distress signal in the event of an aircraft accident. The signals are broadcast on 121.5, 243.0, and 406.0

Question 2

121.5 MHz

Answer 2

For ATC to communicate with a VHF (very high frequency) radio equipped aircraft on 121.5, the pilot must have already selected 121.5 and be actively monitoring the frequency. ATC or another aircraft must also be monitoring 121.5

Question 3

243.0 MHz

Answer 3

UHF (ultra high frequency) 243.0. When either ATC or an aircraft transmits on 243.0, it overrides UHF frequencies so that all UHF radios in the vicinity of the transmission will hear it.

Question 4

406.0 MHz

Answer 4

Have a digital transmittor that can be encoded with the owners contact information and aircraft data. Can also be encoded with the aircraft’s position data. They also transmit a stronger signal when activated than the older 121.5 MHz ELTs.
The 406.0 MHz ELTs also have a low-power 121.5 MHz homing transmitter to aid searchers in finding aircraft.

Question 5

How are ELTs Triggered to be Broadcast

Answer 5

Designed to be triggered to broadcast after an impact. Can also be activated with a switch in the cockpit. It is wise to check to make sure this hasn’t been activated after landing. Check after a hard landing. May want to test an ELT after a new battery has been installed.

Question 6

You are allowed to test ELTs when…

Answer 6

During the first five minutes of each hour

Question 7

An ELT battery is required to be replaced or recharged when…

Answer 7

The ELT has been in use for a cumulative one hour, or when the battery has reached 50% of its half life, determined by the manufacturer. Can be found on the ELT itself, or in the aircraft’s logbook.

Question 8

ELT mnemonic

Answer 8

121.5
12 calendar months, 1 hour cumulative use, .5 life