Section F. Visual Communications

 
Introduction
 Communication between an assisting Auxiliary aircraft and surface units is necessary if the aircraft giving assistance is to be effective.  The communication may be with the target vessel, an assisting surface vessel, or both.  The communication may consist of simple aircraft and surface maneuvers, surface manual signals, radio, or a combination of techniques.  Regardless of the methods used, the aircraft will be of little value if some sort of workable communications between the surface vessel and the aircraft cannot be established.  In the case of a surface vessel being assisted, the personnel onboard may have little or no knowledge of how to communicate with the aircraft.  Therefore, considerable ingenuity and patience on the part of the flight crew may be necessary to establish a degree of effective communication.
 
F.1.  Surface-to-Air Signals
 Very often, only visual methods will be available for communications with vessels on the surface.  This is particularly true during a patrol or search where the surface vessel is attempting to pass the message that it needs assistance.  Flight crews should be alert to a variety of possible signals from the people on the surface to help in this identification, including: 
. Body signals where one of the crewmembers of the unit in need of assistance faces in the direction of the aircraft and raises and lowers his arms or possibly just waves wildly.  (see Figure 6-2)

. Use of a circle and square signal on a hoist, or a black square and black circle on a flag with an orange background.  (see Figure 6-2)

 
F.1.a.  Body Movement Signals
 Body movement signals were developed for military use and are now widely accepted in the civilian community.  They are found in various aircraft and SAR documents including the Airman’s Information Manual, the AOPA Handbook for Pilots, and the Search and Rescue (AUXSAR) Student Text.
There are eleven such “standard” signals that can be made by a person aboard a surface vessel (Figure 6-2).  The signals are simple body position and movement signals and are taught in various Auxiliary training courses.  Most often, the signals will be used by an Auxiliary surface facility.  However, members of the general boating public may have received instructions in their use or may have a document available, which describes the signals and explains their use.
 

 
 
 
Affirmative (Yes)

 Negative (No)
 
 All OK . do not wait

 Pick us up . plane abandoned
 
 
Affirmative (Yes)
 Negative (No)
 All OK – do not wait
 Pick us up – plane abandoned
　
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