How many times is MAYDAY spoken during a distress call?

In maritime and aviation emergencies, the term "MAYDAY" is a standard distress call used to indicate a life-threatening situation. The phrase is repeated three times to ensure clarity and to grab the immediate attention of those listening. This repetition is critical in the chaos of a distress scenario, as it helps to differentiate the emergency call from other messages.

The practice of repeating "MAYDAY" three times is codified in international regulations for safety at sea and in the air. This helps to ensure that the message is understood, especially in situations where communications may be difficult due to background noise or interference. By stating "MAYDAY" three times, the urgency of the situation is emphasized, prompting immediate response from authorities or nearby vessels/aircraft.

The other frequency options presented do not align with established protocols for distress calls, which specifically state the three-time repetition as necessary for clarity and urgency.