On The Air: July 2018

I took off from Islesboro (an island off the coast of Maine) in a C-150. I was going south down the coast that took me through the Portland ATC area. I then realized that I was going to fly over Moodys Diner in Waldoboro. This diner was made famous by Maine comedians Bert and I, and again later by Tim Samples.

Editorial Staff

Friday, June 15, 2018 at 12:00 AM ET

Verified

Key Takeaways:

Air traffic control (ATC) communications are often characterized by humorous exchanges, quick wit, and friendly banter between pilots and controllers.
Controllers frequently demonstrate patience, local knowledge, and a relaxed professionalism, often responding to pilot errors or unique situations with humor or understanding.
The anecdotes highlight the human element in aviation, showcasing both amusing blunders and supportive interactions between the cockpit and the tower.

See a mistake? Contact us.

I took off from Islesboro (an island off the coast of Maine) in a C-150. I was going south down the coast that took me through the Portland ATC area. I then realized that I was going to fly over Moody’s Diner in Waldoboro. This diner was made famous by Maine comedians Bert and I, and again later by Tim Samples.

I called Portland Approach and advised them I would be flying through the Portland area and was over “Moody’s Diner.” The immediate response with a chuckle was, “Radar Contact. We all know exactly where you are. Come on through at 3000 feet.”