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The Pilots Desk
US-FAA14 CFR 91.207

Emergency locator transmitters

Read the official rule

In plain English

Most US aircraft must have an operable emergency locator transmitter (ELT). The battery must be replaced (or recharged) after 1 cumulative hour of use or when 50% of its useful life has expired, and the ELT is inspected within 12 calendar months.

Key points

  • Operable ELT required for most operations.
  • Battery: replace after 1 cumulative hour of use or at 50% of useful life.
  • 12-calendar-month inspection.

Common pitfalls

  • Forgetting to test/monitor the ELT (test only in the first 5 minutes of the hour).

*This is a plain-English summary for study only. The official 14 CFR text on this page is controlling — always read the current regulation.*

This is an original plain-English explanation for training and reference, not legal advice and not for navigation. Always rely on the current official rule linked above. Last reviewed June 7, 2026.