Interception Procedures

Interception procedures are the standardized actions taken when an aircraft is intercepted by military or authorized security aircraft, typically due to a loss of communication, unauthorized airspace entry, or suspicious behavior. These procedures are governed by ICAO Annex 2, ensuring safe and clear communication between the intercepting and intercepted aircraft using visual signals and standardized maneuvers.

• Identify and escort aircraft that are not following ATC instructions
• Respond to emergencies, security violations, or airspace breaches
• Ensure orderly handling of non-cooperative or unaware traffic
• Prevent accidental escalation by using internationally recognized procedures

• Entering restricted, prohibited, or national defense airspace
• Loss of communication in controlled or sensitive areas
• Deviations from assigned flight plan or altitude
• Suspicion of hijacking, security threat, or unregistered aircraft activity
• Failure to respond to repeated ATC instructions or squawk codes

• Frequency: 121.500 MHz – International emergency frequency — monitor and transmit
• Phraseology (if intercepted): “This is OE-ABC. I am a civil aircraft. Unable to establish communication. Request instructions.”

• Maintain visual contact with intercepting aircraft
• Comply immediately with all signals and instructions
• Do not make sudden movements or transmit unclear intentions
• Squawk 7700 (emergency) if needed
• Monitor and transmit on 121.500 MHz
• If instructed to land, do so safely and comply with ground instructions
• Notify ATC as soon as possible

• ✅ File and follow an appropriate flight plan
• ✅ Maintain two-way radio contact with ATC
• ✅ Use correct transponder settings (e.g., 7000 VFR, 7600 radio failure)
• ✅ Stay clear of restricted/prohibited areas, especially near borders or military zones

• Interceptions are serious events and can involve military response
• Failure to comply may lead to fines, license actions, or international legal consequences
• Intercepted aircraft should behave calmly, predictably, and cooperatively

• ✅ Learn the visual signals by heart — they are universal
• ✅ Review interception procedures during route planning
• ✅ Use LearnATC’s emergency and security scenario training to practice appropriate actions