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On The Air September 2023

Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • A pilot learned a specific nuance of Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) regarding the termination of an instrument approach, realizing that sidestepping to another runway is not permitted while on an active ILS without cancelling IFR or a specific procedure.
  • Air Traffic Controllers sometimes use wit and humor to manage repetitive pilot requests or clarify rules, as demonstrated by a controller suggesting a pilot apply for an ATC job rather than repeatedly asking for a higher altitude.
  • The article features several lighthearted anecdotes showcasing the human element in aviation, with pilots and controllers engaging in memorable, often humorous, exchanges that highlight communication challenges and quick thinking.
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While I was flying into Boeing Field to pick up my Angel Flight passengers, I was on the ILS for 32L, which is a long (10,000 feet) runway. I was meeting my passengers at an FBO off the north end of 32R, which is a much shorter runway (3700 feet) roughly aligned at the north end of the field with the north end of 32L.

So while a few miles out on final in severe-clear-VMC, I asked tower if it was okay if I sidestepped to 32R because it would be a much shorter taxi once I landed. They said unable since there was no procedure to do so. No problem, I continued, landed on 32L, and off the runway called ground. They cleared me to taxi to the FBO, but gave me a phone number to call.

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