I personally have nothing but the higest regard for our ATC Bretheren, and understand your concerns 57.
The point of this thread, to me, is that SQ221, as a foreign carrier would have had no idea what "AIR MED 1" meant, and hence the confusion on the night. I've had my share of medical emergencies on long haul RPT services and the term was new to me. (never had the fortune to fly for the RFDS etc.) By the same token PAN PAN has absolutely no meaning in the United States. They would just ask if you are declaring an emergency ie. medical/ low fuel or whatever.
Last edited by Back Seat Driver; 20th Jul 2008 at 12:37.
Reason: spelling- it's late and I'm tired.