2.8 Emergency Locator Transmitter (ELT, aka ELBA or ELB).

An Emergency Locator Transmitter (ELT) is a battery-operated radio transmitter designed to help search and rescue services locate an aircraft after an accident or forced landing.

It may also be referred to as an:

• ELT — Emergency Locator Transmitter
• ELBA — Emergency Locator Beacon Aircraft
• ELB — Emergency Locator Beacon

The ELT transmits a distress signal that can be detected by aircraft, ground stations, and satellites.

2.8.2 State the frequency(ies) on which the ELT transmits.

An ELT transmits on two main frequencies:

• 121.5 MHz VHF
• 406 MHz UHF

The 121.5 MHz signal is the international aviation distress frequency. It transmits a continuous swept audio tone that can be heard on a VHF radio.

The 406 MHz signal is transmitted approximately every 50 seconds. This signal contains identification information programmed into the ELT.

The 406 MHz signal is detected by satellites, which pass the information to the Rescue Coordination Centre New Zealand (RCCNZ). This allows search and rescue services to identify the aircraft and begin locating it more quickly.

2.8.4 State the requirements for the carriage of an ELT.

In general, all aircraft must carry at least one operable ELT.