On the Air: July 2020

IFR Staff

Monday, June 22, 2020 at 09:05 AM ET

Verified

Key Takeaways:

Air Traffic Control (ATC) demonstrates adaptability and assistance by accommodating unusual in-flight emergencies, such as securing an underslung Jeep, and creatively offering alternative flight experiences when initial pilot requests are unfeasible.
The narratives highlight various facets of pilot-ATC communication, from successful accommodation of unique situations to common misunderstandings of aviation procedures, particularly regarding non-towered airports.
These stories collectively emphasize the crucial role of ATC in ensuring safety and enhancing the flying experience through their flexibility and willingness to go beyond routine procedures.

See a mistake? Contact us.

In the early 1970s, I was a captain in the Kansas Army National Guard flying a CH-54 Sky Crane helicopter IFR north bound off of Forbes Field, Topeka, Kansas. We were headed to annual training with Jeep on a four point load hung under the CH-54 for ground transportation upon arrival. We were level at 4000 in the clouds on a Victor airway when over the intercom, our flight engineer advised that the hood was loose on our Jeep. We had entered the clouds at about 3000 feet. I had the following exchange with Kansas City Center:

Me: “Kansas City Center, Guard 435, request.”