Voice Communication Failure (SERA.14083): Required Actions, 7601 and 20-Minute Rule

090-04-01Pablo Asensio Martínez2026-04-012 min

General Actions

In the event of a radio communication failure, the pilot should first attempt to re-establish communication by:

  1. Checking headsets and audio connections.
  2. Trying the previous frequency.
  3. Trying other appropriate frequencies for the route.
  4. Asking other aircraft to relay messages.
  5. Monitoring 121.5 MHz (Guard).

SSR Transponder Codes

  • 7600: Radio Communication Information. (Mnemonic: "76 - I need a radio fix").
  • 7500: Unlawful Interference.
  • 7700: Emergency.
  • 7601: (New SERA) IFR flight in VMC deciding to land visually.

Blind Transmission

If communication cannot be established but the pilot believes the transmitter is working (or blindly hoping):

  • Phrase: "TRANSMITTING BLIND".
  • Procedure: Transmit the message twice on the designated frequency.
  • Receiver Failure: If the receiver is known to be failed, use "TRANSMITTING BLIND DUE TO RECEIVER FAILURE", repeat the message, and advise the time of the next intended transmission.

Procedures by Flight Rules (ICAO/SERA)

Visual Meteorological Conditions (VMC)

If the failure occurs in VMC (or VMC is encountered):

  1. Continue to fly in VMC.
  2. Land at the nearest suitable aerodrome.
  3. Report arrival by the most expeditious means to the appropriate ATC unit.
    • Note: At a controlled aerodrome, watch for visual signals (light gun signals).

Instrument Meteorological Conditions (IMC)

New SERA Rules (SERA.14083 - Applicable from 2025):

  • Level and Speed: Maintain the last assigned speed and level (or Minimum Flight Altitude if higher) for a period of 20 minutes following the failure (or setting 7600).

    • Note: Older rules often cited "7 minutes", but new European regulations specify 20 minutes to give ATC time to clear the airspace.
    • After 20 minutes: Adjust level and speed in accordance with the filed flight plan.

  • Route:

    • Proceed according to the current flight plan route to the designated navigation aid serving the destination.
    • If Independent/Vectored: Proceed in the most direct manner to rejoin the flight plan route no later than the next significant point.

  • Descent and Approach:

    • Commence descent from the designated navigation aid at the EAT (Expected Approach Time) last received and acknowledged.
    • If no EAT was received, commence descent at the ETA (Estimated Time of Arrival) from the flight plan.

  • Landing:

    • Complete a normal instrument approach.
    • Land within 30 minutes after the ETA or EAT (whichever is later).