International Code of Signals flags, A to Z

A · Alfa

I have a diver down; keep well clear at slow speed.

B · Bravo

I am taking in, or discharging, or carrying dangerous goods.

C · Charlie

Yes (affirmative, or the preceding group should be read in the affirmative).

D · Delta

Keep clear of me; I am maneuvering with difficulty.

E · Echo

I am altering my course to starboard.

F · Foxtrot

I am disabled; communicate with me.

G · Golf

I require a pilot. For fishing vessels close together on fishing grounds: I am hauling nets.

H · Hotel

I have a pilot on board.

I · India

I am altering my course to port.

J · Juliett

I am on fire and have dangerous cargo on board; keep well clear of me, or I am leaking dangerous cargo.

K · Kilo

I wish to communicate with you.

L · Lima

You should stop your vessel instantly.

M · Mike

My vessel is stopped and making no way through the water.

N · November

No (negative, or the preceding group should be read in the negative). Visual or sound only; use “NO” by voice or radio.

O · Oscar

Man overboard.

P · Papa

In harbor: All persons should report on board as the vessel is about to proceed to sea. At sea, for fishing vessels: My nets have come fast upon an obstruction. As a sound signal: I require a pilot.

Q · Quebec

My vessel is healthy and I request free pratique.

R · Romeo

No single-letter meaning is assigned in the International Code of Signals.

S · Sierra

I am operating astern propulsion.

T · Tango

Keep clear of me; I am engaged in pair trawling.

U · Uniform

You are running into danger.

V · Victor

I require assistance.

W · Whiskey

I require medical assistance.

X · X-ray

Stop carrying out your intentions and watch for my signals.

Y · Yankee

I am dragging my anchor.

Z · Zulu

I require a tug. For fishing vessels close together on fishing grounds: I am shooting nets.