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

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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 an immediate air traffic control (ATC) notification to a pilot about a "possible pilot deviation," such as being at an incorrect altitude.
It is named after Captain Jack Brasher, whose alleged 1985 altitude deviation was not reported to him until months later, preventing his crew from recalling the event's specifics.
This incident led to the current procedure of immediate notification with the phrase "possible pilot deviation," aiming to gather information to enhance safety rather than being punitive.

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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.”