Register

On the Air: September 2021

Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • Pilots encounter humorous communication challenges, such as deciphering a strong Boston accent or engaging in witty banter with air traffic control regarding destinations like Area 51.
  • Airports can feature creative and culturally specific waypoints, like those at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport referencing local university traditions, U.S. Presidents, and even Star Wars characters.
  • Lighthearted exchanges occur among pilots, including a good-natured correction of an aircraft type that reveals one pilot's secondary profession as an umpire.
See a mistake? Contact us.

In my Air Force, then airline career I have dealt with many accents speaking English. Most are fairly easy to “decode” but one day flying into Boston, I was defeated.

With my copilot flying, I was handling the radio. Handed off to Boston Approach, I was greeted by a female voice with a pronounced Boston accent. In addition she spoke very fast in a Hi‑C pitch which could have shattered glass. Now, Bostonians can pronounce Rs, they just put them where they don’t belong and omit them from where they do belong.

Ready to Sell Your Aircraft?

List your airplane on AircraftForSale.com and reach qualified buyers.

List Your Aircraft
AircraftForSale Logo | FLYING Logo
Pilot in aircraft
Sign-up for newsletters & special offers!

Get the latest stories & special offers delivered directly to your inbox.

SUBSCRIBE