How long is an emergency locator transmitter designed to transmit?

An emergency locator transmitter (ELT) is specifically designed to transmit distress signals for a minimum duration of 48 hours. This is crucial for search and rescue operations, as it ensures that the beacon remains active long enough for recovery teams to locate an aircraft in distress. The 48-hour transmission period is a standard requirement set by regulatory bodies, which enhances the effectiveness and reliability of the ELT in actual emergency situations. The 48-hour time frame is particularly important considering factors such as battery life and the potential for adverse conditions that may delay a response.