On the Air: August 2022

IFR Staff

Friday, July 08, 2022 at 04:31 PM ET

Verified

Key Takeaways:

Air traffic controllers sometimes use playful sarcasm or commentary on aircraft performance, particularly regarding climb rates for lighter aircraft.
Pilots and controllers occasionally engage in lighthearted banter and puns, creating memorable and enjoyable exchanges over the radio.
Accidental radio transmissions can lead to humorous or embarrassing situations for pilots, especially when confusing intercom and radio functions.

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I was picking up my IFR clearance early one morning at Gillespie field in San Diego. While copying down my clearance when the tower had just opened, I thought I heard, “Cirrus N1234, Cleared KIWA via MBZ2 departure as filed … 4000, expect 11,000 two minutes after departure … “

After I read that back, Gillespie clearance said, “Cirrus N1234, that was 4000, expect 11,000 10 minutes after departure. Even a Cirrus should be able to do that.”