AIM Text
- The concept of airborne intercept and escort is based on the Search and Rescue (SAR) aircraft establishing visual and/or electronic contact with an aircraft in difficulty, providing in‐flight assistance, and escorting it to a safe landing. If bailout, crash landing or ditching becomes necessary, SAR operations can be conducted without delay. For most incidents, particularly those occurring at night and/or during instrument flight conditions, the availability of intercept and escort services will depend on the proximity of SAR units with suitable aircraft on alert for immediate dispatch. In limited circumstances, other aircraft flying in the vicinity of an aircraft in difficulty can provide these services.
- If specifically requested by a pilot in difficulty or if a distress condition is declared, SAR coordinators will take steps to intercept and escort an aircraft. Steps may be initiated for intercept and escort if an urgency condition is declared and unusual circumstances make such action advisable.
- It is the pilot's prerogative to refuse intercept and escort services. Escort services will normally be provided to the nearest adequate airport. Should the pilot receiving escort services continue onto another location after reaching a safe airport, or decide not to divert to the nearest safe airport, the escort aircraft is not obligated to continue and further escort is discretionary. The decision will depend on the circumstances of the individual incident.
Source: FAA Aeronautical Information Manual · current edition · paragraph 6-2-3.
The short answer
This AIM section is FAA advisory guidance on airborne intercept and escort, where a Search and Rescue (SAR) aircraft establishes visual or electronic contact with an aircraft in difficulty, provides in-flight assistance, and escorts it to a safe landing. It explains when SAR coordinators initiate intercept for distress versus urgency conditions and that escort is the pilot's prerogative to refuse.
Research Notes
Common Questions
When will SAR intercept and escort my aircraft?
According to the AIM, if intercept and escort is specifically requested by a pilot in difficulty, or if a distress condition is declared, SAR coordinators will take steps to intercept and escort the aircraft. Steps may also be initiated if an urgency condition is declared and unusual circumstances make such action advisable.
Can I decline escort services, and where will the escort take me?
The AIM states it is the pilot's prerogative to refuse intercept and escort services. Escort services will normally be provided to the nearest adequate airport. If the pilot continues past a safe airport or chooses not to divert to the nearest one, the escort aircraft is not obligated to continue and further escort is discretionary.
Does escort availability depend on time of day or weather?
Yes. The AIM notes that for most incidents, particularly those at night or during instrument flight conditions, the availability of intercept and escort depends on the proximity of SAR units with suitable aircraft on alert for immediate dispatch. In limited circumstances, other aircraft flying nearby can provide these services.