What is the maximum distance from an airport that a training aircraft may operate without an emergency locator transmitter?

The correct choice is based on regulations set forth by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). For training aircraft, the maximum distance they may operate from an airport without an emergency locator transmitter (ELT) is specified as 50 nautical miles (NM).

This regulation is put in place to ensure that aircraft operating in training environments remain within a safe and manageable distance from the airport, where assistance can be rapidly rendered in case of an emergency. The 50 NM threshold balances operational flexibility for flight training while still adhering to safety protocols that help ensure quick response capabilities in circumstances where an aircraft may encounter difficulties.

Distances greater than 50 NM can place the aircraft too far from immediate assistance, and that increases the risk associated with training operations without an ELT. Hence, as outlined in FAA guidelines, maintaining this distance helps to ensure both regulatory compliance and pilot safety during training flights.