How long will the ELT transmit when activated?

The ELT, or Emergency Locator Transmitter, is a crucial piece of safety equipment designed to aid in search and rescue operations in the event of an aircraft accident. When activated, the transmitter emits a distress signal that can be detected by search and rescue teams.

The correct answer indicates that the ELT will transmit for 50 hours when activated. This duration is specifically engineered to ensure that even in challenging circumstances, there's a reliable signal available for a significant period, allowing rescue teams enough time to locate the transmitter. This duration balances the need for an extended operational time with the constraints of battery life and the effectiveness of the signal.

Other potential durations are not the standard operational time for the ELT. For instance, while options like 20 hours may seem sufficient, they are not in alignment with the established specifications for ELTs used in aviation. The extended durations of 75 and 100 hours exceed what is commonly specified in aviation safety equipment guidelines, thus reaffirming that 50 hours is the accurate and effective transmission time for the ELT.