View Full Version : PAN PAN
2close
3rd Aug 2006, 09:49
Does anyone have any idea where the piece of phraseology PAN PAN orginated?
Is it an acronym or does it have any reference to anything?
Cheers,
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Farmer 1
3rd Aug 2006, 10:02
French origin, I believe. According to Wikepedia: The French word "panne" nominally refers to a mechanical failure or breakdown of any kind.
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3rd Aug 2006, 10:31
Thanks for that.
Does the origin of MAYDAY also come from French, i.e. je m'aider (or something similar)?
Thanks again,
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planeenglish
3rd Aug 2006, 10:36
Hi 2close,
Mayday is an anglicized version of the French m'aidez (help me) or m'aider (to render help to me).
ORIGIN OF PAN PAN (URGENCY DISTRESS CALL)
From the French word 'panne' --which roughly translates to breakdown. In radio telephony, the word PAN is repeated three times pronouncing it as the French word 'panne'.
F5NOD, Gil Gautier confirms "It's correct ! French "Panne" means "breakdown" ... or "out of service" or "out of order". When you have a Car "Panne" you have to fixe it !! ;-) ..
Best to all,
PE
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3rd Aug 2006, 19:06
Cheers troops,
Much appreciated.
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