Nordo Procedure

SNFO/SWSO VOICE COMMUNICATIONS

CHAPTER FOUR

411. NORDO PROCEDURE

It is important to provide regulations and procedures applicable to all possible situations

associated with a two-way radio communications failure. When confronted with a situation not

covered in the regulation, aircrews are expected to exercise good judgment in whatever actions

are taken. The emergency procedures section of the Flight Information Handbook provides a

handy in-flight reference for two-way radio failure.

412. MALFUNCTION

FAA regulations require a malfunction report be given when operating in controlled airspace

under IFR. The aircrew shall report immediately to ATC any in-flight malfunction of

navigational or communication capability. Only report those malfunctions that affect ability to

continue IFR operations. Each report shall include the following:

Aircraft identification

Equipment affected

The degree your capability to operate IFR is impaired

The nature and extent of assistance desired from Air Traffic Control

The exact nature and degree of assistance available from the ATC system will vary considerably.

It is essential the aircrew inform the controller of any assistance needed. Some examples of what

ATC can do for you include vectors to the nearest divert field, calling ahead to an airfield so

arresting gear are ready or crash trucks are standing by, and maintaining traffic separation while

you rid the cockpit of smoke. If no assistance is required, normal handling may be expected. If

special handling is requested, the ATC controller will provide the maximum amount of

assistance consistent with the equipment available. Should the circumstances warrant greater

attention and priority handling with respect to other IFR aircraft, the aircrew should declare an

emergency.

413. MINIMUM FUEL AND EMERGENCY FUEL

Minimum fuel is an advisory term indicating that in the judgment of the aircrew, their fuel state

is such that no undue delays can be accepted enroute to destination. This is not an emergency

situation, but informs the controller that any undue delays may result in an emergency fuel

situation. Pilots declaring minimum fuel should not expect special handling from FAA

controllers.

Emergency fuel shall be reported as fuel remaining in minutes. Emergency fuel warrants

special handling. Declaring emergency fuel tells the controller you can accept no delays.

SPECIAL SITUATIONS

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