AIM 

4/20/23 

slightly below the intercepted aircraft altitude) in the general direction the intercepted aircraft is expected to turn. 

The interceptor will rock its wings (daytime) or flash external lights/select afterburners (night) while crossing 

the intercepted aircraft’s flight path. The interceptor will roll out in the direction the intercepted aircraft is 

expected to turn before returning to verify the aircraft of interest is complying. The intercepted aircraft is 

expected to execute an immediate turn to the direction of the intercepting aircraft. If the aircraft of interest does 

not comply, the interceptor may conduct a second climbing turn across the intercepted aircraft’s flight path 

(minimum 500 feet separation and commencing from slightly below the intercepted aircraft altitude) while 

expending flares as a warning signal to the intercepted aircraft to comply immediately and to turn in the direction 

indicated and to leave the area. The interceptor is responsible to maintain safe separation during these and all 

intercept maneuvers. Flight safety is paramount. 

NOTE

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1. 

NORAD interceptors will take every precaution to preclude the possibility of the intercepted aircraft experiencing jet 

wash/wake turbulence; however, there is a potential that this condition could be encountered. 

2. 

During Night/IMC, the intercept will be from below flight path. 

FIG 5

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6

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1 

Intercept Procedures 

c.  Helicopter Intercept phases 

(see FIG 5

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6

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2). 

1. 

A

pproach Phase. 

Aircraft intercepted by helicopter may be approached from any direction, although 

the helicopter should close for identification and signaling from behind. Generally, the helicopter will approach 

off the left side of the intercepted aircraft. Safe separation between the helicopter and the unidentified aircraft 

will be maintained at all times. 

2.  Identification Phase. 

The helicopter will initiate a controlled closure toward the aircraft of interest, 

holding at a distance no closer than deemed necessary to establish positive identification and gather the necessary 

information. The intercepted pilot should expect the interceptor helicopter to take a position off his left wing 

slightly forward of abeam. 

3.  Post Intercept Phase. 

Visual signaling devices may be used in an attempt to communicate with the 

intercepted aircraft. Visual signaling devices may include, but are not limited to, LED scrolling signboards or 

blue flashing lights. If compliance is not attained through the use of radios or signaling devices, standard ICAO 

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10 

National Security and Interception Procedures