What does "pan pan" mean?

"Pan pan" is an internationally recognized maritime distress call indicating an urgent situation that is not immediately life-threatening but requires assistance. It is used to communicate urgency to other vessels or shore stations regarding a situation that may escalate if not addressed promptly.

The terminology originates from French, where "pan" is derived from "panne," meaning "breakdown." When a vessel sends out a "pan pan" message, it alerts the maritime community to provide support or attention to the situation being reported.

While "pan pan" signifies urgency, it is differentiated from a distress signal, which would indicate a more severe situation requiring immediate help, such as "mayday." Understanding this distinction is crucial for responding appropriately to calls for assistance on the water. Other options such as a routine message or a safety inspection report do not convey the same level of urgency and therefore are not recognized in the context of emergency communications.