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4/20/23 

AIM 

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 

to follow the helicopter. This is because the helicopter pilot may lose visual contact with the intercepted aircraft. 

NOTE

 

Intercepted aircraft must not follow directly behind the helicopter thereby allowing the helicopter pilot to maintain visual 

contact with the intercepted aircraft and ensuring safe separation is maintained. 

FIG 5

6

Helicopter Intercept Procedures 

d. 

Summary of Intercepted Aircraft Actions. An intercepted aircraft must, without delay: 

1. 

Adhere to instructions relayed through the use of visual devices, visual signals, and radio 

communications from the intercepting aircraft. 

2. 

Attempt to establish radio communications with the intercepting aircraft or with the appropriate air traffic 

control facility by making a general call on guard frequencies (121.5 or 243.0 MHz), giving the identity, position, 

and nature of the flight. 

3. 

If transponder equipped, select Mode 3/A Code 7700 unless otherwise instructed by air traffic control. 

NOTE

 

If instruction received from any agency conflicts with that given by the intercepting aircraft through visual or radio 

communications, the intercepted aircraft must seek immediate clarification. 

4. 

The crew of the intercepted aircraft must continue to comply with interceptor aircraft signals and 

instructions until positively released. 

5

6

14.  Interception Signals 

TBL 5

6

1 and TBL 5

6

2

National Security and Interception Procedures 

5

6

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