On The Air: April 2012

Years ago I was flying my RV-4 in the narrow VFR slot between the old Washington ADIZ and the expanded Camp David TFR when I lost my GPS. Without a VOR receiver, I contacted Washington Center. The Call went as follows:Me: Washington Center, Experimental One Four Foxtrot Tango.Washington Center: Experimental One Four Foxtrot Tango, go ahead.Me: Ive lost all navaids over Frederick and Im concerned that I will violate airspace and cause a little excitement.…

Editorial Staff

Monday, August 04, 2014 at 12:00 AM ET

Verified

Key Takeaways:

Pilots and air traffic controllers frequently engage in humorous and witty banter, even when addressing minor errors or navigation issues.
The article highlights instances of pilots making lighthearted mistakes, such as misidentifying their aircraft or forgetting a clearance, leading to amusing exchanges.
Air Traffic Control often demonstrates a human touch, offering reassurance and engaging in jokes with pilots during their flights.
Some aviation incidents can arise from unconventional circumstances, like a flight instructor being unable to intervene due to his large size and relaxed posture in a small aircraft.

See a mistake? Contact us.

Years ago I was flying my RV-4 in the narrow VFR slot between the old Washington ADIZ and the expanded Camp David TFR when I lost my GPS. Without a VOR receiver, I contacted Washington Center. The Call went as follows:
Me: “Washington Center, Experimental One Four Foxtrot Tango.”
Washington Center: “Experimental One Four Foxtrot Tango, go ahead.”
Me: “I’ve lost all navaids over Frederick and I’m concerned that I will violate airspace and cause a little excitement. Please give me vectors to keep me out of trouble.”
Center: “Experimental One Four Foxtrot Tango, no worries. Everyone is targeting you.”

Bruce MacInnes
Sebring, Fla.