Meaning of the Letters of International Maritime Signal Flags

International maritime signal flags are a variety of flags that are highly effective in communicating with ships. The principal flag systems and related codes comes under the International Code of Signals.Various navy authoritiesuse flag systems with additional codes and flags, and other few type of flags are utilized in special scenarios, or have some kind of historical significance.

There are numerous methods by which the flags are used as signals. The methods are listed below.

1.  A range of flags can be used to spell out a message, with each flag representing a letter.example is the Bravo flag, which is letter B.

2.Individual flags come with standard and particular meanings.

3.  Multiple flags can be used at the same time that can form a code word whose meaning can be looked up in a guideline book held by the concerned parties. 

4. In yacht racing, flag meanings change, for instance the letter P flag is used as a ‘preparatory’ flag to mean an imminent start, while the letter S flag means ‘shortened course.’

Some of the international maritime letter flags are mentioned below along with the meaning.

1.  A - Diver below (when stationary) and I am undergoing a speed trial

2.  B - I am taking on or discharging explosives

3.  C - Affirmative

4. D - Keep clear off me

5.  G - I require a pilot

6.  H - I have a pilot on board

7- I am altering my course to port

8.  Y - I am carrying mails

9. Z - to be used to address or call shore stations

Consider this blog post and make use of Bravo Flags or other letter flags.