EMERGENCY DESCENT PROCEDURES
(a)When an aircraft experiences sudden decompression or a malfunction requiring an emergency descent, the pilot should take the following steps as soon as practicable in the order appropriate for the circumstance:
(1)navigate as deemed appropriate by the pilot;
(2)advise the appropriate ATS unit of the emergency descent and, if able, intentions;
(3)set transponder to Code 7700 and, if applicable, select the appropriate emergency mode on the automatic dependent surveillance – broadcast and/or automatic dependent surveillance – contract (ADS-B/ADS-C);
(4)turn on aircraft exterior lights (commensurate with appropriate operating limitations);
(5)watch for conflicting traffic both visually and by reference to airborne collision avoidance system (ACAS) (if equipped); and
(6)when emergency descent is complete, coordinate further intentions with the appropriate ATS unit.
(b)The aircraft should not descend below the lowest published minimum altitude that will provide a minimum vertical clearance of 300 m (1 000 ft) or, in designated mountainous terrain, of 600 m (2 000 ft) above all obstacles located in the area specified.
(c)Upon recognition that an aircraft is making an emergency descent, all appropriate actions should be taken immediately by the air traffic services unit to safeguard all aircraft concerned. Appropriate actions may include the following, in the order appropriate for the circumstance:
(1)broadcasting an emergency message;
(2)issuing traffic information and/or instructions to aircraft affected by the descent;
(3)advising the minimum flight altitude and altimeter setting for the area of operation; and
(4)informing any other air traffic services units that may be affected by the emergency descent.
(d)Unless specifically instructed by the air traffic services unit to clear the area or threatened by immediate danger, the pilot of an aircraft receiving emergency descent broadcast should take the following actions:
(1)continue according to current clearance and maintain listening watch on the frequency in use for any further instructions from the air traffic services unit; and
(2)watch for conflicting traffic both visually and by reference to ACAS (if equipped).