AIM DECODED

6-5-2. Radio Call Signs

AIM Text

Preferred radio call sign for the ARFF IC is “(location/facility) Command” when communicating with the flight crew and the FAA ATCT.

Source: FAA Aeronautical Information Manual · current edition · paragraph 6-5-2.

The short answer

This AIM section is FAA advisory guidance stating the preferred radio call sign for the Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting Incident Commander when communicating with the flight crew and the FAA Air Traffic Control Tower: “(location/facility) Command,” for example “LAX Command” or “Washington Command.” It promotes clear, unambiguous emergency coordination supporting flight-crew communications.

Research Notes

Common Questions

What call sign does the ARFF Incident Commander use on the radio?

Per this advisory section, the preferred radio call sign for the ARFF Incident Commander is “(location/facility) Command” when communicating with the flight crew and the FAA ATCT. The examples given are “LAX Command” and “Washington Command.”

Who does the ARFF IC communicate with using this call sign?

The section specifies the call sign is preferred when the ARFF Incident Commander communicates with the flight crew and the FAA Airport Traffic Control Tower (ATCT) during an aircraft emergency.