Table A.2.1. In-Flight Distress Signals

AIR FORCE T-38 TRACK INTERMEDIATES

APPENDIX A

Intercepting Signals

The intercepting aircraft positions itself in front of

and usually to the left of the intercepted aircraft and

rocks its wings. This is a signal that the interceptor

wishes the other aircraft to follow it. A responding

irregular flashing of all available lights in this case

indicates distress.

Radio Failure

Tap microphone or earphone of helmet and signal as

appropriate:

a. Receive Failure: With palm of hand over the ear

position, move hand forward and backward.

b. Transmitter Failure: With palm of hand toward

and in front of the face, move hand up and down.

Radio Inoperative Landing (No Assist Aircraft Fly aircraft along the side of the landing runway,

Available)

1000 feet above the field elevation, rocking wings

until reaching end of the runway.

Turn to

downwind and check the tower or mobile control for

green light on base leg and final approach for

landing clearance.

System Failures (HEFOE System)

Clench fist and hold it at top of canopy, then hold up

the required number of fingers to denote which

system is involved (see a through e below). If the

clenched fist signal is seen, but no finger signal is

seen or the intercepting pilot is unable to understand

the signal given, the pilot will assume the aircraft in

distress has one or more systems inoperable and

should proceed with caution.

The receiving pilot acknowledges the signal by

repeating it:

Hydraulic one finger

Electrical two fingers

Fuel three fingers

Oxygen four fingers

Engine five fingers

Note: For multi-engine aircraft, point to the side,

left or right, that corresponds with the engine

failure.

NOTES:

1. For use only when radio is inoperative or not available.

2. Day visual signals.

A-7