12/2/21
AIM
intercepted aircraft is expected to turn before
returning to verify the aircraft of interest is
complying. The intercepted aircraft is expected to
execute an immediate turn to the direction of the
intercepting aircraft. If the aircraft of interest does not
comply, the interceptor may conduct a second
climbing turn across the intercepted aircraft’s flight
path (minimum 500 feet separation and commencing
from slightly below the intercepted aircraft altitude)
while expending flares as a warning signal to the
intercepted aircraft to comply immediately and to
turn in the direction indicated and to leave the area.
The interceptor is responsible to maintain safe
separation during these and all intercept maneuvers.
Flight safety is paramount.
NOTE
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1.
NORAD interceptors will take every precaution to
preclude the possibility of the intercepted aircraft
experiencing jet wash/wake turbulence; however, there is
a potential that this condition could be encountered.
2.
During Night/IMC, the intercept will be from below
flight path.
FIG 5
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6
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1
Intercept Procedures
c. Helicopter Intercept phases
(see FIG 5
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6
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2).
1. Approach Phase.
Aircraft intercepted by helicopter may be approached
from any direction, although the helicopter should
close for identification and signaling from behind.
Generally, the helicopter will approach off the left
side of the intercepted aircraft. Safe separation
between the helicopter and the unidentified aircraft
will be maintained at all times.
2. Identification Phase.
The helicopter will initiate a controlled closure
toward the aircraft of interest, holding at a distance no
closer than deemed necessary to establish positive
identification and gather the necessary information.
The intercepted pilot should expect the interceptor
helicopter to take a position off his left wing slightly
forward of abeam.
3. Post Intercept Phase.
Visual signaling devices may be used in an attempt to
communicate with the intercepted aircraft. Visual
signaling devices may include, but are not limited to,
LED scrolling signboards or blue flashing lights. If
compliance is not attained through the use of radios
or signaling devices, standard ICAO intercept signals
(TBL 5
−
6
−
1) may be employed. In order to maintain
safe aircraft separation, it is incumbent upon the pilot
of the intercepted aircraft not to fall into a trail
position (directly behind the helicopter) if instructed
National Security and Interception Procedures
5
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6
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9