2.14.4
Explain the procedures and phraseology involved in transmitting a MAYDAY and
PAN call with emphasis on:
(a) Radio frequencies;
(b) Station(s) to call;
(c) Contents of the call;
(d) Enforcing radio silence.
MAYDAY and PANPAN Radio Frequencies
The pilot of an aircraft in distress must transmit on the air-ground frequency in use at the time of the distress the
distress signal MAYDAY (preferably spoken three times), followed by the distress message.
If on an unattended frequency and it is considered that better assistance can be provided by transferring
to another frequency the pilot should do so, after broadcasting this intention on the original frequency.
Content of MAYDAY Message
The distress message should consist of as many of the following elements as possible in
the following order:
(a) Name of station addressed (time and circumstances permitting);
(b) Identification of the aircraft;
(c) Nature of the distress condition;
(d) Intention of the pilot; and
(e) Present position, level (FL or altitude), and heading.
The transmission of an accurate aircraft position may be critical to any subsequent search and/or rescue action.
Transponder
In addition to transmitting a distress call and message, the pilot should immediately select the emergency code 7700 on the aircraft transponder. This will allow radar controllers to instantly see the aircraft’s position and altitude on a radar screen.
Content of PAN PAN Message
This message should consist of as many of the following elements as
possible in this order:
(a) Name of station addressed;
(b) Identification of the aircraft;
(c) Nature of the urgency condition;
(d) Intention of the pilot;
(e) Present position, level (FL or altitude), and heading; and
(f) Any other useful information.
RADIO SILENCE
After a Mayday call has been made other aircraft should impose radio silence on the frequency
unless there is no response from a ATC ground station than a pilot can try to relay the message.
Aircraft Not involved with distress traffic may resume making transmissions once
The distress is cancelled or Distress traffic is terminated
distress traffic has been moved to a different frequency
ATS has given permission
you required assistance yourself ie PAN or MAYDAY