Ext 333 is the Emergency Telephone number for RAF Marham Air Traffic Control Tower (ATC)

Ext 333 - IT’S THE MAGIC NUMBER!
If you think that this article doesn’t apply to you because you don’t work on the airside, you would be mistaken. It applies to everybody, service or civilian, and from any trade or branch. Many people do not understand what Ext 333 is and when it should be used. Hopefully this article will answer everybody’s questions and misconceptions about 333.

WHAT IS 333?
Ext 333 is a telephone extension number that will connect you directly to the Tower controller. Additionally, dialling 01760 446233 will also connect directly to the Tower if you are calling from a BT line or mobile.

WHEN SHOULD I USE 333?
If you see anything on an aircraft or on the airfield that appears unusual/dangerous, or you think it may pose a Flight Safety hazard, for example:

Red/White flags hanging from a taxiing aircraft,

Fluid leaking from an aircraft,

Missing or loose panels,

Or you see an aircraft hit a bird (the crew may not be aware of the incident).

WHAT HAPPENS WHEN I USE 333?
Your call will be answered immediately by the ground /local controller in the air traffic tower. They will ask for your name, telephone number, location and nature of the occurrence. They will then assess the situation and take the appropriate action, be it to stop a taxiing aircraft or speak to the crew of an airborne aircraft.

WHAT HAPPENS IF I DON’T USE 333?
If you see a problem/occurrence, don’t assume someone else will have seen it and will make the call. Don’t delay passing on any information by going through your line manager, the guardroom or calling the air traffic switchboard. This would only waste valuable time and may allow a minor issue to become a major incident.

Remember, if in doubt call ext 333 – they don’t bite!

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