Description

Imposition of radio silence is a procedure that is sometimes used in case of aircraft emergency.

The purpose of radio silence is to ensure the frequency channel is available exclusively to the aircraft in distress so that better service is provided:

• Exchange of information (pilots elaborating on the situation and controllers providing useful information) is easier
• Navigational assistance (which is sometimes necessary during emergencies) requires considerable time spent on communication
• Distraction of both the flight crew in distress and the air traffic controllers is reduced so that they may focus on the emergency situation

There are two ways to ensure radio silence: