What does the term "mayday" indicate in aviation?

The term "mayday" is an internationally recognized distress signal used in aviation and maritime communications to indicate an emergency situation that requires immediate assistance. When a pilot or crew uses "mayday," it alerts air traffic control and other pilots in the vicinity that they are facing a grave and imminent danger, such as engine failure, severe technical issues, or other critical situations that could jeopardize the safety of the flight.

This term originates from the French phrase "m'aider," which translates to "help me." Its use is standardized within the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) regulations, emphasizing the urgency and gravity of the situation. By employing this distress call, communication clarifies the need for swift and prioritized support, facilitating quicker responses from emergency responders and nearby aircraft.

In contrast, a routine check on passenger comfort, a request for a schedule change, or a signal for a planned landing do not encompass the serious and urgent nature of a "mayday" call and, therefore, do not represent the correct context in which the term is used.