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On The Air: September 2013

While flying through South Carolina, I overheard the following conversation.Roanoke Approach: Piper 123 you have traffic 12 oclock 3 miles, opposite direction, 500 feet above you.Piper 123: (student pilot after a brief pause) Ah...roger Roanoke approach…this is Piper 123 and…understand that there is (longer pause)…traffic at 12 oclock…500 feet above me…and…and…opposite direction. Right now we cant see traffic but were looking.Roanoke Approach: Piper 123, traffic no longer a factor. They were fast. …

Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • The anecdotes highlight humorous and witty exchanges between pilots and air traffic controllers, often arising from unusual situations, pilot confusion, or clever remarks.
  • They demonstrate the critical role of air traffic control in guiding pilots, especially students, through various scenarios, from identifying traffic and confirming location to navigating challenging conditions.
  • The collection of stories showcases the human element in aviation communication, blending professionalism with occasional lightheartedness and personality from both pilots and controllers.
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While flying through South Carolina, I overheard the following conversation.
Roanoke Approach: “Piper 123 you have traffic 12 o’clock 3 miles, opposite direction, 500 feet above you.”
Piper 123: (student pilot after a brief pause) “Ah…roger Roanoke approach…this is Piper 123 and…understand that there is (longer pause)…traffic at 12 o’clock…500 feet above me…and…and…opposite direction. Right now we can’t see traffic but we’re looking.”
Roanoke Approach: “Piper 123, traffic no longer a factor. They were fast.”

Wiley Loughran
Moneta, Virginia

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