Ryanair Initial Practice Exam

What does the operation of an ELT type A/B involve?

1. Automatic activation only

2. Manual activation only

3. Both automatic and manual activation

4. None of the above

The correct answer is: Both automatic and manual activation

The operation of an Emergency Locator Transmitter (ELT) type A/B involves both automatic and manual activation. This dual functionality is essential for ensuring that the ELT can operate effectively in different situations. In the event of an accident where the aircraft is damaged, the automatic activation system allows the ELT to transmit a distress signal without requiring any action from the crew. This is crucial as it can enable rescue operations to commence quickly, even if the crew is incapacitated. On the other hand, manual activation provides the crew with the capability to turn on the ELT intentionally if they anticipate a situation that could lead to a crash or if they have already sustained an emergency but were unable to automatically activate the system. This feature ensures that the crew can still alert search and rescue teams to their location, enhancing safety and improving survival chances. The combination of both activation methods makes the ELT versatile and reliable, adhering to aviation safety standards that aim to optimize emergency response.