Readback: April 2018

In 1984 when I got my instrument ticket, I was taught to use FROM when identifying crossing radials. I dont know if that is a standard practice or simply my instructors way of doing it. In Octobers Killer Quiz, Gone to the Dogs, you are identifying PLAZA via TO the 173-degree radial. My way would have been to dial in 353 and use a FROM indication.

Editorial Staff

Saturday, March 10, 2018 at 12:00 AM ET

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Key Takeaways:

Using "TO" or "FROM" for VOR radial identification is equally accurate; the choice depends on individual training, comfort, and mental conversion ability.
A pilot shares a negative experience with privatized Canadian ATC, citing communication breakdowns (e.g., with customs) and delays as reasons to oppose privatizing ATC in the U.S.
An experience with a visually misaligned GPS approach underscores the importance of thoroughly interpreting approach charts for subtle clues about runway orientation, even if clearer chart annotations could be beneficial.

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To … or From?

In 1984 when I got my instrument ticket, I was taught to use FROM when identifying crossing radials. I don’t know if that is a standard practice or simply my instructor’s way of doing it. In October’s Killer Quiz, “Gone to the Dogs,” you are identifying PLAZA via TO the 173-degree radial. My way would have been to dial in 353 and use a FROM indication.

At the top of the second column on page 12 it also states “…so you dial a radial from SFO to verify PLAZA.” Again it appears the radial dialed in is TO, not FROM. I’m wondering what your thoughts are on this.