It is important to remember not to make any further RTF unless initiated by the pilot.

This is because the initial communication by the pilot may have been made without the hijacker’s knowledge.

If a hijack squawk code is received, ATC should check the transponder setting:

“Confirm squawk”.

NO REPLY shall be taken as confirmation of the A7500 squawk. Absence of a reply shall not be taken as an indication that the squawk was set by mistake.

ATC should also attempt to provide any information requested.

Although most cases of this modern form of terrorism are false alarms, ALL must be taken seriously until proved to be a hoax.

The crews are trained to handle such situations and there is a bomb search checklist on board.

In order to reduce the effect of a possible explosion, the following procedures are followed if a foreign object is found in the cabin:

· the object is placed at the bottom of a rear door

· the object is covered in all available blankets, cusions and other soft materials

In the event of a bomb warning, ATC is the most direct point of contact with the pilot and crew. Therefore, much of the coordination and official counter measure planning will be relayed through the controller talking to the pilot.

Controllers should relay verbatim instructions or advice passed by authorised persons for transmission to the aircraft.

All procedures will be executed according to local instructions as contained in the local alarm plans.

The ACFT may stop its climb and the pilot may request immediate level re-clearance.

Bomb devices may be connected to a pressure-related ignitor.

In the event of an explosion, damage is reduced if flying at a lower altitude due to lower cabin differential pressure.

Cabin differential pressure is the difference in pressure between the inside and outside of the cabin.

Implications of a bomb warning:

· the pilot may bring the aircraft into landing configuration early, as any explosion may reduce subsequent manoeuvrability.

· Aircraft in landing configuration are less manoeuvrable, slower and do not allow any steep manoeuvres.

· The pilot may require to land at the next suitable aerodrome.

· The passengers and crew may need to be evacuated after landing.

SITUATION: If the pilot intends to land at the next suitable aerodrome, if needed assist by:

· finding out and recommending one or more suitable alternate aerodrome options

· assessing ACFT type and configuration to avoid missed approach

· passing aerodrome conditions (RWY in use, length, surface, elevation, navigational and other facilities)

· passing WX information of landing aerodrome: wind, visibility, ceiling, QNH

SITUATION: If pilot requests to change to an early landing configuration, if needed assist by:

· clearing the aircraft as requested and as early as possible

· clearing the appropriate airspace

· separating other air traffic sufficiently

· providing all assistance required

SITUATION: If pilot requests a lower flying altitude, if needed assist by:

· clearing the aircraft to lower flight levels as soon as possible

· recognising that if an aircraft is climbing, it will normally stop its climb immediately

· considering that flat descents are preferred when giving clearances

ATC

Assist resolution of the situation by:

· Informing your supervisor

· Not initiating any further RTF referring to the hijacking unless confirmed by the pilot

· Complying with the pilot’s requests as far as possible

· Transmitting pertinent information without expecting a reply

· Monitoring all flight manoeuvres-give room for manoeuvre

· Collecting any necessary information e.g. destination aerodrome, WX situation at destination, routing etc.

REMEMBER: