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ELT inspection interval

Aviation Mechanic Airframe (AMA) practice question 15 of 26 on Communications, Light Signals, and Runway Lighting Systems. ACS element AM.II.I.K7 · difficulty: recall. Want to answer it in a timed quiz? Use the Aviation Mechanic Airframe (AMA) practice mode.

Question bank updated 2026-09-22

QUESTIONHow often must an emergency locator transmitter (ELT) be inspected for proper installation, battery corrosion, and operation of the controls and crash sensor?

  1. AEvery 12 months
  2. BEvery 24 calendar months
  3. CEvery 100 hours of flight time
Show the answer and explanation

Correct answer: A. Every 12 months

  • A — correct The handbook states that ELTs must be inspected within 12 months of the previous inspection.
  • B — incorrect Twenty-four calendar months is the transponder test and inspection interval, not the ELT inspection interval.
  • C — incorrect The ELT inspection interval is based on calendar time, not on hours flown.

BACKGROUND

An ELT is an independent battery powered transmitter activated by the excessive G-forces of a crash, and it transmits on 406.025 MHz to satellites in the Cospas-Sarsat system. ELTs are required in most general aviation aircraft, and the handbook states they must be inspected within 12 months of the previous inspection for proper installation, battery corrosion, operation of the controls and crash sensor, and the presence of a sufficient signal at the antenna. Built-in test equipment allows the check without transmitting a real distress signal, and technicians are cautioned not to activate the ELT. The inspection must be recorded in the maintenance records including the new battery expiration date, which must also be marked on the outside of the unit.

STUDY TIP

Remember the ELT as a 12-month item and the transponder as a 24-calendar-month item; knowledge tests frequently swap those two intervals.

KEY POINTS

  • ELTs must be inspected within 12 months of the previous inspection.
  • Built-in test equipment allows checking without transmitting a distress signal.
  • The inspection and the new battery expiration date must be recorded, including on the unit itself.

SOURCES

  • FAA-H-8083-30B ch11 "Emergency Locator Transmitter (ELT)"
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SkyDrill is not affiliated with the FAA. This is an original practice item based on FAA-H-8083-31B Aviation Maintenance Technician Handbook – Airframe, and 14 CFR part 43. Regulations and handbooks are revised; confirm details against the current edition.