What Is a Mayday Call?
A Mayday call is the international distress signal used in aviation and maritime communication to indicate a life-threatening emergency. It is the most serious form of radio distress call and signals immediate need for help.
Origin and Meaning
- “Mayday” comes from the French phrase “m’aider”, meaning “help me” (venez m’aider = “come help me”).
- It was chosen in the 1920s because it is easy to understand and hard to confuse over radio transmissions.
When to Use a Mayday Call
A Mayday should only be used in grave and imminent danger, such as:
- Aircraft engine failure
- Fire on board
- Person overboard
- Vessel sinking
- Medical emergencies requiring immediate evacuation
How to Make a Mayday Call (Standard Format)
When making a Mayday call over radio (e.g., VHF Channel 16 or aviation frequency):
- Say “Mayday” three times
- State the name of the vessel or aircraft and call sign
- Give your position (latitude/longitude or relative location)
- Describe the nature of the emergency
- Indicate the type of assistance needed
- Give number of people on board
- Provide any other important info
Example (Maritime):
tMayday, Mayday, Mayday
This is Sailing Vessel *Orion*, call sign AB1234
We are located 25 nautical miles south of Cape Cod
We are taking on water and sinking
Four persons on board, need immediate rescue
Over
Alternatives to Mayday
- Pan-Pan: Urgent situation, not immediately life-threatening (e.g., engine failure but under control)
- Sécurité: Safety message, often used for navigational hazards or weather warnings
Misuse Warning
False Mayday calls are illegal and can result in fines, imprisonment, or both, as they divert critical resources.
