Flight Following Fail

Editorial Staff

Monday, July 26, 2021 at 10:10 AM ET

Verified

Key Takeaways:

During a routine VFR flight, ATC unexpectedly terminated radar services much earlier than anticipated, leaving pilots to navigate complex airspace independently.
This unexpected change resulted in one pilot inadvertently infringing on controlled airspace, highlighting the challenges of sudden loss of ATC guidance.
The key takeaway is that pilots must always be prepared for the unexpected, possess thorough knowledge of airspace boundaries, and have relevant frequencies ready, rather than assuming ATC will follow established routines.

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I’m part of a pilot’s breakfast group that flies from the airport in Big Bear City, Calif., elevation 6700 feet, to lower-elevation airports in the Los Angeles Basin airspace. On this day, we were headed to the Corona (Calif.) Municipal Airport (KAJO) and its good restaurant.

Upon departing our home airport, we request VFR flight following from ATC so we are in the system. The controllers at SoCal Approach keep a watchful eye on us for any conflicts and clear us through the crowded airspace.