Which statement accurately describes the Auto-Distress Alarm?

• A. It is an audible alarm that alternates between 1300 Hz and 2200 Hz and lasts 30-60 seconds
• B. It is a silent alert to the operations center
• C. It is a visual beacon only
• D. It is a siren at 1000 Hz for 10 seconds

Answer: (A)

An Auto-Distress Alarm is designed to deliver a rapid, unmistakable audible distress signal to alert the crew. It uses tones at two frequencies, 1300 Hz and 2200 Hz, that alternate together, creating a distinctive pattern that stands out over background noise. The duration is 30 to 60 seconds, which keeps the alert persistent enough for people to notice and respond without overdoing it.

This combination of alternating tones and a medium-length duration helps ensure the signal is quickly recognized and associated with distress, across different environments and levels of ambient noise. It’s an active alarm meant to be heard and evoked a prompt reaction, not a silent notification or a visual-only cue, and not a shorter, single-frequency siren.