Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) Practice Exam

When must an Emergency Locator Transmitter (ELT) be inspected?

1. Every 30 days

2. Every 6 months

3. Every 12 months

4. Every 24 months

The correct answer is: Every 12 months

An Emergency Locator Transmitter (ELT) must be inspected every 12 months to ensure that it is functioning correctly and is ready for use in an emergency situation. This inspection requirement is part of the regulatory framework established by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to enhance safety in aviation. During this annual inspection, various aspects such as the battery condition, signal transmission, and overall operational integrity of the ELT are checked. The 12-month inspection interval ensures compliance with safety standards, allowing pilots and operators to rely on the ELT for signaling rescue services in the event of an accident or emergency. The goal is to maintain the equipment in optimal working order, as a non-functional ELT may not effectively serve its purpose in aiding search and rescue efforts. Remembering the specific inspection timeline is crucial knowledge for a Certified Flight Instructor, as it emphasizes the importance of regular maintenance for flight safety equipment.