Are you one of many pilots intimidated by the invisible voices behind the avionics panel? Well, if you are, there is a magic action you can take to overcome your fear. It is as simple as scheduling a visit to a local air traffic control tower or Terminal Radar Approach Control (TRACON) facility.
By meeting the people behind the invisible voices you will find that they are nowhere near as intimidating as they may appear. Air traffic controllers are people like you and me whose job it is to keep you and other fliers safe, and to help you when in need. Visiting their facilities not only will reduce any stress over ATC communications, it will also bring a better understanding of how you as a pilot can reduce any stress the controllers may experience. You will learn what the invisible voices see and why their commands make sense. And you may also learn what procedures and means of communications the controllers in your local area prefer and what their pet peeves are.
