FAA Ground School Practice Test

When should an emergency locator transmitter (ELT) be tested?

1. During the first five minutes of the hour

2. After the first five minutes after the hour

3. At the top of each hour

4. Anytime before a flight

The correct answer is: After the first five minutes after the hour

An emergency locator transmitter (ELT) is a crucial safety device used in aviation to help locate an aircraft in the event of an emergency. The appropriate time to test an ELT is five minutes after the hour. This timing minimizes the possibility of the test signal causing confusion or interference with search and rescue operations, as well as other aircraft monitoring distress signals that occur on common frequencies. Testing an ELT during the first five minutes of the hour might lead to the test signal being misinterpreted as a real distress call, which could trigger unnecessary responses from search and rescue agencies. Testing at the top of each hour has similar issues, as it could also coincide with other scheduled communications when people may be actively monitoring frequencies. Testing at any time before a flight is not ideal since it doesn't adhere to the standardized practice designed to prevent false alarms and confusion among emergency response teams. Thus, the recommendation is to test the ELT at five minutes after the hour to ensure compliance with regulations and to ensure the testing process is as effective and non-disruptive as possible.