What Is a Brasher Warning?

Here's the story behind why air traffic control issues this 'possible pilot deviation' warning.

Meg Godlewski

Wednesday, June 26, 2024 at 09:40 AM ET

Verified

Edited By: tccjeremy

The FAA says recent IACRA website problem was related to a network issue. [Credit: Meg Godlewski]

Key Takeaways:

A "Brasher warning" is air traffic control's immediate notification to a pilot about a possible pilot deviation, such as an altitude error.
It is named after Captain Jack Brasher, who in 1985 allegedly deviated from an assigned altitude but was not informed until months later, making it difficult for him to recall the incident.
The procedure for immediate notification was established to ensure pilots can promptly remember and report details of potential deviations.
The FAA states that Brasher warnings are not punitive but aim to gather information to learn from deviations and enhance overall aviation safety.

See a mistake? Contact us.

Question: One of the old guys at the FBO was talking about getting his first Brasher warning in 30 years of professional flying for a possible violation. Is “brashing” pilot slang for something?

Answer: The pilot in question may have made a pilot deviation—like being at the wrong altitude—and was warned by air traffic control: “We have a number for you to copy, possible pilot deviation.”