Title: Updated Procedures for Communication Failure and Emergency Descent under Part-SERA
Date of Issue: May 2025
Applicability: EU Member States and EASA-associated countries. Local regulations apply in non-SERA airspace (e.g., Switzerland, UK).
Summary of Change
ED Decision 2024/007/R amends SERA.14083 and GM1 SERA.11001 to include:
- Clear procedural updates for lost communications under both IFR and VFR operations, including specific timelines and transponder code use.
- Detailed guidance for emergency descent procedures (EDP), including crew responsibilities and post-descent communication requirements.
Impact on Operators
- Flight crews must follow structured escalation protocols for lost COM, including alternate communication methods.
- IFR/VFR flights have distinct procedures, especially under VMC/IMC.
- Emergency descent steps must be rehearsed and reflected in SOPs, with defined PF and PM roles.
- Visual signal monitoring is emphasized near controlled aerodromes.
Lost Communication Procedures
- Initial Steps: Attempt re-establishment on the last frequency; try other ATS channels; use CPDLC, SATVOICE, or relay via other aircraft; set squawk 7600; follow procedures by flight type and condition.
- IFR under IMC: Maintain assigned speed/level for 20 minutes, follow flight plan, hold if necessary, and land within 30 minutes after ETA/EAT.
- IFR under VMC: Set squawk 7601, divert to the nearest suitable aerodrome, and report arrival.
- VFR flights: Stay in VMC, land at the nearest suitable aerodrome, and report arrival to ATS.
- Near controlled aerodromes: Monitor for visual/light signals from ATS.
Emergency Descent Procedures
- PF Responsibilities: Initiate descent and navigate as deemed appropriate, consider leaving airway, follow aircraft and company-specific SOPs.
- PM Responsibilities: Monitor for conflicting traffic (visual, TCAS), ensure SOP compliance, support coordination and communication.
- Post-Descent: Inform ATC of intentions, coordinate return or diversion, complete QRH actions and report as required.
- These procedures apply within EU and EASA FIRs; local rules prevail in non-SERA FIRs.
Affected Manuals
- Operations Manual Part A – General/Basic
- Operations Manual Part B – Aircraft Operating Procedures
- Operations Manual Part D – Flight Crew and Dispatcher Training
TRS Recommendation
TRS recommends operators review and revise all operational documentation to reflect these changes. Priority areas include:
- Proper use of transponder codes 7600/7601 per flight scenario.
- Timely transitions to holding or approach during lost COM under IFR.
- Clear crew tasking during emergency descent scenarios.
- Integration of procedures into training and safety programs.
Official Reference
ED Decision 2024/007/R implementing GM1 SERA.11001 and revised SERA.14083.
Further Information
Easy Access Rules for Standardised European Rules of the Air (SERA)