FAA Ground School Practice Test

Which frequency is primarily monitored for emergency locator transmitter (ELT) activation?

1. 122.9 MHz

2. 121.5 MHz

3. 126.7 MHz

4. VHF-Flight 127.0 MHz

The correct answer is: 121.5 MHz

The frequency primarily monitored for emergency locator transmitter (ELT) activation is 121.5 MHz. This frequency is designated as the international distress frequency for aircraft and is monitored by both air traffic control and aircraft in the vicinity of the distress signal. ELTs are designed to transmit a distress signal when an aircraft is involved in an accident or goes missing, aiding search and rescue operations. The 121.5 MHz frequency serves as a common emergency channel for such alerts, ensuring that the signal can be received by nearby aircraft and ground stations equipped to respond. While other frequencies listed may serve specific purposes within aviation communication, they are not dedicated to emergency locator transmitters. Thus, 121.5 MHz is the only frequency among the choices that is devoted to monitoring and responding to emergency situations involving ELTs.