What does the Emergency Locator Transmitter (ELT) primarily help with?

The Emergency Locator Transmitter (ELT) is primarily designed to assist in locating an aircraft in the event of a crash. When activated, usually after a significant impact, the ELT transmits a distress signal on specific frequencies, enabling search and rescue teams to pinpoint the aircraft's location quickly. This capability is critical for enhancing the chances of survival for any occupants and facilitating a quicker response from rescue services.

The ELT is an essential safety device mandated by regulations for most aircraft, and its design focuses specifically on emergency scenarios where the aircraft is lost. This distinguishes it from systems monitoring engine performance, tracking aircraft speed and altitude, or addressing weight discrepancies, which all serve different functions in aviation safety and operation.