"New day, new jet." That is an Air Force Instructor Pilot's standard statement that means the current training scenario is over, and a new one has begun. It is a line of demarcation that reminds student pilots it is time to move on to the next challenging scenario. It's a new day here at ATCcommunication.com, …
If you are anticipating flying into Class B airspace for the first time, not to worry. The procedures ATC uses inside of Class B are nearly identical to those used in other classes of airspace. The subtle variations in procedure will most likely be unnoticeable to you. What may jump out at you is the …
As you approach your destination, ATC will clear you to begin a descent from your enroute altitude to some lower altitude. Often descent clearances will come in a series of lower altitudes. This series of step-down clearances is issued to allow you to descend without conflicting with other traffic at lower altitudes. Occasionally, and in …
No one likes to have their forward progress stopped. You know what I mean. When you are stuck in a traffic jam on the road, it’s very aggravating. Waiting at a long red stoplight when you need to be somewhere can raise your blood pressure. Similarly, when ATC says, “Expect holding at [a navigation fix],” …
The time between ATC’s radio transmissions differs depending on the amount of traffic in a controller’s airspace. The more traffic in a section of airspace, the less time between ATC transmissions. Take comfort in the fact that no matter how busy the radio seems, the words and phrases ATC uses remain exactly the same words …
If you have been flying from uncontrolled airport to uncontrolled airport, never getting in touch with ATC, it’s likely the scope of your radio skills has shrunk. You may feel confident about reporting your position in an uncontrolled airport pattern but anxious about contacting ATC at a busy Class C airport. This should not come …
It never occurred to me to address the use of foul language on the radio, until today.
“Cessna 9130 Delta, Oakland Center, radio check,” says the controller. “Cessna 9130 Delta, loud and clear,” the pilot answers. “Cessna 9130,” says the controller, “that was my third attempt to call you. If you want to continue with flight following, you’re going to have to listen for your call sign.” Why didn’t the pilot answer …
What is the correct response on the radio for this situation? ATC: “Cherokee 7 Kilo Mike, traffic eleven o’clock and one zero miles, opposite direction, a Lear Thirty-Five at niner thousand.” You see the Learjet’s target on the screen of your ADS-B screen. What you say in reply to ATC depends on whether or not …
Updated 27 January 2017. Yesterday, I published an article about what to say to ATC when you have identified traffic on your onboard ADS-B screen. Based on feedback from several air traffic controllers, who all responded similarly, I’m going to change my recommendation. Previously, I said when ATC points out traffic and you notice the …
