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On The Air: May 2010

I was westbound on a sunny day just south of Duluth, Minn., when the following conversation regarding situational awareness occurred:Delta 2234: Minneapolis Center, Delta Twenty-two Thirty-four. What is the large lake in front of me?Minneapolis Center: Uh, which one? Minnesota license plates do say, Land of 10,000 Lakes. Delta 2234: The one at my 12 oclock.Center (annoyed or flabbergasted, Im not sure): Uh, Lake Superior!Delta 2234: Oh, Wow!There was a brief period of radio silence likely due to Center employees rolling on the floor laughing and crying at the same time.

Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • The article presents several humorous and unexpected anecdotes illustrating unique interactions between pilots and air traffic controllers.
  • Pilots demonstrate a range of behaviors, from moments of surprising lack of situational awareness to clever, indirect requests or personal oversights during flights.
  • Air traffic controllers often exhibit remarkable patience, understanding, and a good sense of humor in responding to unusual or amusing pilot queries and situations.
See a mistake? Contact us.

I was westbound on a sunny day just south of Duluth, Minn., when the following conversation regarding situational awareness occurred:

Delta 2234: “Minneapolis Center, Delta Twenty-two Thirty-four. What is the large lake in front of me?”

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