Mind your Battery Minder

[rbp]

the "when to declare" thing comes around every so often. i thought it might be useful to read whatthe controller handbook says:

 

1. EMERGENCY SITUATIONS

Consider that an aircraft emergency exists and inform the RCC or ARTCC if:

NOTE-

USAF facilities are only required to notify the ARTCC.

1. An emergency is declared by any of the following:

1. The pilot.
2. Facility personnel.
3. Officials responsible for the operation of the aircraft.
4. A system-generated transmission from an aircraft.

1. There is unexpected loss of radar contact and radio communications with any IFR or VFR aircraft.
2. Reports indicate it has made a forced landing, is about to do so, or its operating efficiency is so impaired that a forced landing will be necessary.
3. Reports indicate the crew has abandoned the aircraft or is about to do so.
4. An emergency transponder code is displayed or reported.

NOTE-

EN ROUTE. ERAM: Code 7700 causes an emergency indicator to blink in the data block.

1. Intercept or escort aircraft services are required.
2. The need for ground rescue appears likely.
3. An Emergency Locator Transmitter (ELT) signal is heard or reported.

 

 

[Ragsf15e]

On 1/12/2023 at 8:48 AM, rbp said:

the "when to declare" thing comes around every so often. i thought it might be useful to read whatthe controller handbook says:

 

1. EMERGENCY SITUATIONS

Consider that an aircraft emergency exists and inform the RCC or ARTCC if:

NOTE-

USAF facilities are only required to notify the ARTCC.

1. An emergency is declared by any of the following:

1. The pilot.
2. Facility personnel.
3. Officials responsible for the operation of the aircraft.
4. A system-generated transmission from an aircraft.

1. There is unexpected loss of radar contact and radio communications with any IFR or VFR aircraft.
2. Reports indicate it has made a forced landing, is about to do so, or its operating efficiency is so impaired that a forced landing will be necessary.
3. Reports indicate the crew has abandoned the aircraft or is about to do so.
4. An emergency transponder code is displayed or reported.

NOTE-

EN ROUTE. ERAM: Code 7700 causes an emergency indicator to blink in the data block.

1. Intercept or escort aircraft services are required.
2. The need for ground rescue appears likely.
3. An Emergency Locator Transmitter (ELT) signal is heard or reported.

 

 

Also here’s some of the guidelines for pilots from the AIM.  I think the highlights are key in the “grey area”situations. “Any other conditions that could adversely affect flight safety.”

You won’t see pilots getting in trouble for declaring an emergency with a situation that is too minor.  It’s good to get the help before you really need it bad.