Pilot/Controller Glossary
EMERGENCY LOCATOR TRANSMITTER (ELT)
This reproduces published FAA reference text for study. It does not replace the current official FAA publication or regulation.
A radio transmitter attached to the aircraft structure which operates from its own power source on 121.5 MHz and 243.0 MHz. It aids in locating downed aircraft by radiating a downward sweeping audio tone, 2‐4 times per second. It is designed to function without human action after an accident.
Retrieved from ecfr.gov on July 18, 2026.