Guard Frequency

New York ARTCC

Guard Frequency

Rev. 1 — Revised: 2026-03-27

Purpose

For controllers who choose to use Guard, this document provides guidance on when and how to use the Guard frequency.

Introduction

The international emergency frequency (VHF 121.500, also known as Guard) may be utilized in accordance with real-world procedures. Pilots and air traffic controllers should monitor the emergency frequency if able.

The Guard frequency (121.5) is exclusively used for emergency communications and notifications. It can be used to establish or restore lost communications between controllers and pilots.

While VATSIM controllers are not required to monitor Guard, ZNY TRACON and enroute controllers are encouraged to do so.

Application

On the VATSIM network, controllers may call a pilot on the Guard frequency when the pilot should be on your primary frequency but is not responding. This can be a pilot who is entering your airspace from an uncontrolled environment or a pilot that was transferred to you but inadvertently entered the incorrect frequency. Guard can be used in place of or in addition to a .contactme request. Within ZNY, Guard frequency should only be used by TRACON or Enroute Controllers.

To monitor the Guard frequency in CRC:

1. Log in to your primary position.

2. In the Voice Switch window, Add Secondary Frequency.

3. Set Facility to ZNY. Under Position, scroll down to Guard 121.500

4. Click the RX button under the 'Guard' entry, which will allow you to receive (monitor) without transmitting on that frequency. Do not transmit on the Guard frequency unless calling a specific aircraft.

5. When you need to contact a pilot on Guard, click the TX button, make your transmission, then click again to deselect TX.

PHRASEOLOGY
Attention all aircraft, [position] on Guard looking for [callsign]. [Callsign], if you hear this message, Ident and contact [position] on [frequency].

EXAMPLE
"Attention all aircraft, New York Approach on Guard looking for N172SP. N172SP, if you hear this message, ident and contact New York Approach on 125.7."