Which signal is used to indicate an Urgency call internationally?

• A. The words PAN PAN spoken three times before calling
• B. The word MAYDAY spoken three times
• C. The word SECURITY spoken three times
• D. PAN PAN spoken twice before calling

Answer: (A)

An urgency call internationally uses the signal PAN-PAN spoken three times. This tells nearby stations that there is a situation affecting safety that requires priority handling, but it is not at the level of a distress situation. Saying it three times ensures everyone on the air understands the message is urgent and should be given priority.

After announcing PAN-PAN three times, you would identify your vessel or station and provide the relevant details (your position, nature of the urgency, and what assistance you need). The other common signals—MAYDAY for distress and SECURITY for safety or security matters—are reserved for different levels of need, with MAYDAY indicating imminent danger and requiring the highest priority. The option that repeats PAN-PAN twice is not correct because the standard requires three repetitions to signal urgency.