What Does “Mayday” Mean?

Mayday 

 An Emergency Signal That Saves Lives

Learn the meaning, history, and importance of this international distress call

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What Does “Mayday” Mean?

Mayday is an emergency distress signal used mainly in aviation and maritime situations when there is a serious threat to life. It comes from the French phrase “m’aider,” meaning “help me” or “come and help me.”                                                               Use Freetools

How Is “Mayday” Spoken?

By international rule, Mayday is spoken three times:

“Mayday, Mayday, Mayday”

This repetition ensures clarity and avoids confusion with regular communication. What is the Advanced Age Calculator

When Is “Mayday” Used?

It is used only in grave and imminent danger, such as:

• Airplane engine failure
• Ship sinking
• Fire on board
• Serious medical emergency
• Collision risk 

Mayday vs. Pan-Pan

• Mayday—life-threatening emergency
• Pan-Pan—Urgent but not life-threatening

Mayday Call Procedure

Steps for making a Mayday call:

1. Say: “Mayday, Mayday, Mayday.”
2. Identify yourself
3. Give your position
4. Explain the nature of the emergency
5. Request specific assistance
6. Provide other important details

“Mayday, Mayday, Mayday. This is Flight Alpha Bravo 123. We are 20 nautical miles south of Mumbai. We have engine failure and are unable to maintain altitude. Request immediate assistance.”

History of May Day

The term was introduced in 1923 by Frederick Stanley Mockford at London’s Croydon Airport. Since both French and English pilots used the airport, “m’aider” was chosen as a clear, quick distress call, becoming “Mayday.”

Misuse of Mayday—A Serious Warning

Using Mayday without a genuine emergency is illegal and can result in fines or legal action. This rule ensures rescue resources are not wasted. What Love Calculator

Conclusion

Mayday is a short word with massive importance, an international SOS signal that saves lives. Next time you hear it, remember: someone is in a life-or-death situation and needs help immediately.

Safety Tip: If you ever go boating or flying, understanding the correct use of Mayday could save your life.

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