Pilots must always "Trust, But Verify" ATC instructions, as controllers are human and make mistakes, and the pilot holds ultimate responsibility for flight safety.
Pilots should maintain strong situational awareness, questioning any clearance that seems illogical or unsafe, particularly concerning altitudes and terrain.
Pilots are empowered to refuse unsafe or out-of-line ATC instructions by knowing FAA regulations (FARs) and Aeronautical Information Manual (AIM) procedures.
Controllers are just like pilots: All are human and make mistakes. Most aregood, know the rules, do everything they can to make your flight efficientand safe, and make sensible judgments. Only a tiny fraction are highly paidchair-warmers too lazy or bored to have opened the book (FAA Order 7110.65)for a refresher on the finer points of their craft.
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