UAE aviation partners pioneer digital ELT testing

Etihad Airways will be the first UAE airline and one of the first globally to utilise the new emergency location transmitter (ELT) testing process developed by Abu Dhabi-based Bayanat.  

The fully digitised testing process – designed to enhance safety, with efficiencies for aircraft and regulators – was launched following the Dubai airshow. Etihad will trial the new process under the supervision of NSRC and the UAE’s General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA).

The ELT process, using Bayanat-developed software, automates reports on the condition of the ELT, eliminating the need aircraft downtime to remove and test ELTs.

The partners claim this technological advancement “is a major milestone for the UAE as it works towards enhanced aviation safety globally, demonstrating how private and public sectors come together to advance solutions. Airlines adopting this innovative technology will experience improved productivity, as ELT testing becomes more efficient and less resource-intensive. This results in significant cost savings and operational benefits.”

Mohammad Al Bulooki, Etihad Airways’ chief operating officer, said: "Safety is Etihad's No 1 priority. This initiative aligns with the airline's vision to offer an unparalleled flying experience while continuing to enhance safety performance for Etihad's guests and crew.”

Bayanat managing director Hasan Al Hosani said: “We believe this advancement will not only save valuable time and resources but also contribute significantly to the overarching goal of enhancing aviation safety globally.”

NSRC general manager Dr Stephen A Toumajan said: “The integration of the ELT system is expected to reduce downtime significantly, thereby increasing operational efficiency across the aviation sector. This enhancement in efficiency is not just for search and rescue operations; it is an advancement for the entire aviation field in the UAE.”