Summary of Emergency and Abnormal Procedures

Callsign and Squawk Readback in Emergencies

When you declare MAYDAY or PAN-PAN, do not expect the usual readback. ATC's immediate concern is your emergency, not confirming details. However, after the initial shock of the emergency, ATC may ask you to confirm your squawk:

Emergency - Confirming Squawk

Unknown · F-ABCD or similar

ATC Aircraft on 121.5 declaring MAYDAY, confirm squawk 7700

PILOT: Squawk 7700, confirming, MAYDAY, this is F-GHJK

You will also be asked to confirm your callsign and other details as the emergency progresses. Provide accurate information. Do not volunteer extra information unless asked—keep transmissions concise. ATC has other duties; they will ask for what they need.