Understanding the Phrase "Mayday": Origins and Usage in Air Traffic Communication

The term Mayday is a term frequently heard in aviation emergencies, but its exact origins and usage are often misunderstood. In this article, we will explore why pilots say Mayday when facing a crisis, and we will clarify the distinction between Mayday and the similar-looking and -sound SOS.

The Origin of "Mayday": A Backstory

The origin of the word Mayday can be traced back to the early days of aviation. The term was coined by Frederick Stanley Mockford, an officer at Croydon Airport in England. In 1923, he was asked to think of a word that would indicate distress and would be easily understood by all pilots and ground staff in an emergency. Mockford chose the word “M’aider”, which means “Help Me” in French, as it was commonly understood in the aviation community and would easily be recognized by radio operators.

When a Plane Declares a "Mayday"

When a pilot declares a Mayday, it signals a life-threatening emergency. The phrase "MAYDAY MAYDAY MAYDAY" is repeated three times to emphasize the urgency of the situation. Pilots do not use the word before they start a procedure; instead, they use it when they are in grave danger and require immediate assistance.

The Difference Between "Mayday" and "SOS"

The term Mayday is specific to aviation and maritime emergencies. It is a more formal and urgent signal than SOS, which is used in international distress communications. The word SOS comes from the Morse code message “SOS” which means “save our souls.” However, Mayday is specifically for aviation and maritime emergencies.

What Constitutes an Emergency in Aviation?

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) defines an emergency or distress situation as "a condition of being threatened by serious and/or imminent danger and of requiring immediate assistance." This could range from a fuel leak to a medical emergency onboard. When a plane declares a Mayday or an emergency, it brings the full attention of air traffic control (ATC) to rendering all possible assistance to that plane. It also enables the aircraft to disregard FAA rules if necessary to safely land the plane.

Realities of Aircraft Crashes vs. Mayday Declarations

It is crucial to understand that not all emergencies lead to crashes. The vast majority of planes, even those that have declared an emergency, land safely on runways. Emergency declarations are made when there is a serious and imminent danger, not as a precursor to a crash. The phrase Mayday is a desperate call for help in a critical situation, not a prelude to disaster.

Understanding PAN-PAN

In cases where the situation is not as urgent as a Mayday, pilots may declare a PAN-PAN. This comes from the French phrase "Une Panne," which means "breakdown." When a pilot declares a PAN-PAN, the situation is not life-threatening, but it still requires the attention of air traffic control and other services. The phrase "PAN-PAN PAN-PAN PAN-PAN" is repeated three times to emphasize the urgency.

The Importance of Clear Communication

Clarity and precision are crucial in aviation. Pilots are trained to use the appropriate emergency phraseology to convey the seriousness of the situation. Using the term Mayday when there is a life-threatening situation ensures that all available resources are allocated to saving lives and ensuring safe landings.

Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding the terms Mayday and PAN-PAN is essential for anyone interested in aviation and air traffic communication. While the phrase Mayday is a life-saving call in critical situations, it is not something pilots use frivolously. The term is reserved for the most urgent of emergencies, and its proper use can mean the difference between life and death.