ELT checks, testing & accidental activation

ELT checks: pre-flight, in-flight, post-flight.

Pre-flight (where practicable):

• Inspect: secure, free of external corrosion, antenna connections secure.
• Function switch in ARM (TC AIM SAR 3.4).
• Batteries not past expiry date.
• Listen on 121.5 MHz: confirm ELT not already transmitting (TC AIM SAR 3.4).

In-flight:

• Monitor 121.5 MHz when practicable.
• Signal heard: report to nearest ATS unit:
  • Position, altitude, time first heard
  • Signal strength
  • Position, altitude, time contact lost
  • Ceased suddenly or faded
• Signal remains constant: may be own ELT.

Post-flight (before shutdown):

• Listen on 121.5 MHz again: any ELT, possibly own, still running?
• Signal detected and own ELT not switched OFF: deactivate it. No OFF switch: disconnect and re-set per manufacturer's instructions.
• Notify nearest ATS unit or JRCC:
  • Time first heard
  • Action taken
  • Signal ceased or ongoing
• Signal continues after own ELT deactivated: may be another ELT. Notify ATS/JRCC again.

Permanently mounted ELT (TC AIM SAR 3.6):

• Visual: undamaged, antenna connected.
• Function test, only where safe (no spilled fuel or vapours): select 121.5 MHz on aircraft radio, listen for siren-like tone.
• Models vary: know how to operate ELT in aircraft flown (TP 1102 Ex.2 ELT).

Testing:

• Test every few months or as manufacturer recommends (TC AIM SAR 3.8).
• Test 406 MHz ELTs per manufacturer's instructions (SAR 3.8.1).
• 121.5 MHz ELT may transmit for test only during first 5 minutes of any UTC hour (PSTAR 11.02; TC AIM SAR 3.8.2).

Accidental activation (TC AIM SAR 3.7):

1. Report promptly to nearest ATS unit or JRCC, regardless of transmission length: transmitter location, time and duration of transmission.
2. Switch ELT off.

Trap: pre- and post-flight 121.5 listens sound identical but check opposite things: pre-flight, is OWN unit silent; post-flight, is ANY unit still running.

Practice