Readback: March 2014

Wednesday, July 30, 2014 at 12:00 AM ET

Verified

Key Takeaways:

The article clarifies that Patient Airlift Services (PALS) pilots are volunteers, and while logbook entries for database updates are generally not legally required, keeping a record is good practice for aircraft resale.
It explains that radar is required for Instrument Approach Fixes (IAFs) not on an airway or lacking a feeder route, and clarifies how to commence a procedure turn in such scenarios.
Corrections are made regarding visual approaches, noting that a Southwest accident was not caused by a visual approach, commercial IFR preference is often a requirement, and LPV guidance should be included in visual approach tips.
The phenomenon of "Anomalous Propagation" (AP) is explained, where NEXRAD can display "phantom weather" due to temperature inversions bending radar beams, especially in coastal regions.

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Careless Editing
I was excited to see my submission in OTA of the February issue but a slight change in wording could lead the reader to think that PALS pilots are paid.
To clarify, Patient Airlift Services is a volunteer organization that transports sick patients and their families for medical treatment. I wouldn’t want this charitable organization to be misrepresented. The exchange I heard was between the controller and an air carrier.

Joe Sandberg
Lumberton, New Jersey