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Sky Kings: When Not to Talk to ATC

Don’t drop the airplane to fly the microphone.

Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • During a severe in-flight emergency involving ice and engine trouble, the pilots prioritized controlling the aircraft and navigating to a safe landing without obtaining an ATC clearance.
  • The article argues that under FAR 91.3, pilots have the legal authority to deviate from regulations in an emergency without necessarily declaring it, emphasizing the "aviate, navigate, communicate" principle.
  • It highlights the critical balance between communicating with Air Traffic Control and the need to avoid distractions when immediate action is required to maintain aircraft control, potentially saving lives.
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The North Dakota badlands had fascinated John and me for a long time, and we couldn’t think of a better way to enjoy them than from our Comanche 250. In retrospect, we certainly could have chosen a better day.

Martha King

Martha King and John King take turns writing Sky Kings. They have shared flying and teaching aviation for more than 50 years.

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