Episode 298 Show Notes Topic of the show: AG and RH discuss a recent TRIAD emergency inbound flight. What happened? What advice to we have for the pilots and ATC? How did prompt pilot decision making lead to a safe outcome? We also discuss phraseology, clearances, and aircraft identification. This is a packed episode and you don’t want to miss it! Timely Feedback: 1 . Patron TBP sent some clarifying comments about traffic direction. 2 . Patron HTB shared more insight into the BT-13 military trai...
Sep 18, 2023•1 hr 23 min•Season 1Ep. 298
Episode 297 Show Notes Topic of the show: On this week’s show, AG and RH discuss the striking similarities between our jobs as air traffic controllers and real life police officers directing traffic. Squeeze plays, confused drivers, violators, and those that simply don’t pay attention make for an interesting comparison to air traffic. We also share our opinion on general aviation landers at Class Bravo airports, rant about PIREPs, and hear more of your awesome aviation feedback. This is a fun ep...
Sep 11, 2023•1 hr 14 min•Season 1Ep. 297
Episode 296 Show Notes Topic of the show: On this week’s show, we discuss controller hiring and location selection. AG and RH share their opinion on the process and offer some perfect world suggestions on how to solve some of our staffing issues. We also share a recent story of RH going missing, unusual visual approach clearances, and more of your aviation questions and feedback. This was a really fun episode and you don’t want to miss it! Timely Feedback: 1 . Patron Bravo Alpha Sierra gives a m...
Sep 04, 2023•1 hr 15 min•Season 1Ep. 296
Episode 295 Show Notes Topic of the show: On this week’s show, we discuss the rarely used “through clearance” and run a thorough cost benefit analysis of using this technique. What about search and rescue? What other options exist to mitigate the risks of losing communication with ATC on the ground? We also discuss the perilous bike path near jet blast experienced by a listener, the dimensions of mountain airspace, and more of your awesome aviation questions and feedback. You don’t want to miss ...
Aug 28, 2023•1 hr 15 min•Season 1Ep. 295
Episode 294 Show Notes Topic of the show: When a general aviation propeller driven aircraft is assigned an arrival (STAR) into a giant Class Bravo airport, what should the pilot know ahead of time to prepare for the procedure? Why does ATC assign them only to take an aircraft off of them later? What is helpful for the terminal controller when establishing a sequence with faster jet traffic? AG and RH break down the minutia involved in a STAR into a busy Class Bravo airport and answer a listener’...
Aug 21, 2023•1 hr 20 min•Season 1Ep. 294
Episode 293 Show Notes Topic of the show: RH took a solo trip in the mighty Skyhawk from TRIAD to NYC to fly the Hudson Skyline route with Newark and LaGuardia Tower controllers! Special thanks to N90, EWR, LGA, and all the radar controllers along the way. Are you considering a trip to NYC to fly up the Hudson? We try to explain the planning and navigation to make the trip fun and safe! We also discuss RNAV vs. ILS approach clearances and training in the radar room. This was a really fun episode...
Aug 14, 2023•1 hr 15 min•Season 1Ep. 293
Episode 292 Show Notes Topic of the show: On this week’s show, we try to dispel some myths about Class Charlie airspace. How can pilots position themselves to remain safely separated from airplanes operating in and out of busier Class C airports? Why is flight following so important in these areas? We also discuss a tower controller’s rude behavior during otherwise normal operations, special VFR, and more interesting aviation questions. This episode is packed with aviation gold nuggets and you d...
Aug 07, 2023•1 hr 8 min•Season 1Ep. 292
Episode 291 Show Notes Topic of the show: Live from EAA AirVenture 2023 #OSH23! AG and RH are joined by AirVenture ATC expert Bravo Kilo (his views and opinions are his own and he does not officially represent the FAA) and a live audience! Penguin cookies, fly bys, and live feedback from our audience! This was a really good time and we hope you enjoy the show! Special Thanks: AOPA and Kim for hosting us at the AOPA 39 Lounge Patron and co-host Bravo Kilo from the JR Ewing Airport Patron JEF (VP ...
Jul 31, 2023•1 hr 14 min•Season 1Ep. 291
Live show recording with a live audience on Saturday, July 29, 2023 at AirVenture 2023. Come out and ask a live question and meet RH and AG! See you on Saturday! 10am, July 29, AOPA 39 Lounge across from the brown arch at AirVenture!
Jul 26, 2023•1 min
Episode 290 Show Notes Topic of the show: On this week’s show, we discuss the importance of altitude selection and routing when you are flying near busy Class Bravo airspace. Why does clearance delivery issue routing that doesn’t work for your entire route? What can you do to ensure a smooth, reroute free, flight in the NAS? What happens in the background during a reroute? We discuss all of this and break down a recent IFR flight with 4 different reroutes. We also discuss preferential routing, t...
Jul 24, 2023•1 hr 24 min•Season 1Ep. 290
Episode 289 Show Notes Topic of the show: On this week’s show, we discuss a listener’s “possible pilot deviation”. Why did they receive the Brasher warning? Who is waiting for the phone call? What information will be requested on the initial phone call? We share our opinions on the issue and discuss what administrative tasks are being completed, why the controller may have issued the warning, and the possible outcomes. RH and AG also discuss a no radio landing, routing around Class Bravo airspac...
Jul 17, 2023•1 hr 19 min•Season 1Ep. 289
Episode 288 Show Notes Topic of the show: On this week’s show, we discuss general aviation operations at busy Class Bravo airports. Flying to a big airport can be intimidating so we offer some tips for the general aviation pilot. How can you safely taxi behind a heavy jet and keep ATC happy? What should you be prepared for when arriving or departing a busy, Class Bravo airport in your general aviation aircraft? Our special guest, Bravo Kilo, is a friendly voice in a busy tower and shares his exp...
Jul 10, 2023•1 hr 23 min•Season 1Ep. 288
Episode 287 Show Notes Topic of the show: 2023 AirVenture Notice with Bravo Kilo. BK is a highly experienced team lead for air traffic controllers at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh and shares his pro tips on how to safely fly the arrival, how to plan for your flight to OSH, and discusses what controllers expect from pilots participating in the best aviation gathering in the world! If you’ve flown to Oshkosh ten times or if this is your first year flying the FISK arrival, this episode is for you! *Discla...
Jul 04, 2023•1 hr 32 min•Season 1Ep. 287
Episode 286 Show Notes Topic of the show: If we had $1 for every time someone asked if our job was stressful, we’d be billionaires. On this week’s show, we will discuss the elements of this profession that can lead to stress and medical issues along with the impact the schedule has on our personal lives outside of work. This episode topic was brought to us by a long-time show supporter, Bravo Sierra. Thank you for giving us the idea to discuss this topic and hopefully dispel some aspects of the ...
Jun 26, 2023•1 hr 23 min•Season 1Ep. 286
Episode 285 Show Notes Topic of the show: On this week’s show, we discuss a recent double go around and share our opinions on what caused the issue, how it could have been handled, and the red carpet rollout for go arounds in the TRIAD. We also discuss unusual and temporary phraseology, altimeter setting confusion, and an urgent return from the practice area with an open airplane door. We had a lot of fun recording this episode. Enjoy! Timely Feedback: 1 . Patron Mike Charlie shares some kind wo...
Jun 19, 2023•1 hr 12 min•Season 1Ep. 285
Episode 284 Show Notes Topic of the show: Air traffic controllers rely on coordination between facilities to keep planes moving safely and expeditiously throughout the NAS. On this week’s show, we break down a communication misstep and illustrate what happened, why it happened, and how the pilots and controllers worked together to safely solve the problem. Whenever you’re in doubt or confused, speak up! We also discuss amazing call signs, arrival rate calculations, and more of your aviation ques...
Jun 12, 2023•1 hr 16 min•Season 1Ep. 284
Episode 283 Show Notes Topic of the show: On this week’s show, we clarify some points made about our lost comms episode a few weeks ago and respond to some negative feedback. What if the scenario was flip flopped? Why didn’t we address the minutia related to 91.185? What about SIDS and ODPs? Find out our thoughts on this episode. We also answer questions about “over” and “break” phraseology, busy frequencies, and splitting into multiple sectors. This episode is packed and you don’t want to miss ...
Jun 05, 2023•1 hr 17 min•Season 1Ep. 283
Episode 282 Show Notes Topic of the show: AG and RH discuss ways students and instructors can get the most out of their flight lessons in areas with heavy training activity. How can training teams prepare for each less and maximize their time in the airplane while fitting in with rest of the customers using ATC services? We also discuss squeeze plays, strange spacing instructions, and the mighty Skyhawk! You don’t want to miss this episode! Timely Feedback: 1 . SGAC Patron Foxtrot Hotel shares a...
May 29, 2023•1 hr 19 min•Season 1Ep. 282
Episode 281 Show Notes Topic of the show: Why can’t everyone fly over or through Class Bravo airspace? What is the difference between VFR and IFR flights going to the same point in space? On this week’s episode, we break down some important differences between VFR and IFR as they relate to Class Bravo airspace and discuss ways you can plan for the inevitable reroute. We also talk a little more about lost communications and military gear checks. This is a fun episode you won’t want to miss. Menti...
May 22, 2023•1 hr 7 min•Season 1Ep. 281
Episode 280 Show Notes Topic of the show: On this week’s show, RH and AG discuss the difference between foreign and domestic separation responsibilities as they relate to uncontrolled airspace. How do we do our job when aircraft may be passing into an area that is uncontrolled? What responsibilities do we have to prevent a collision? We also discuss IFR non towered cancellation etiquette, approach requests, and much more. You don’t want to miss this episode! Timely Feedback: 1 . SGAC Patron SE s...
May 15, 2023•1 hr 22 min•Season 1Ep. 280
Episode 279 Show Notes Topic of the show: Lost Communications follow up! We will discuss some of the mountain of feedback we received about our lost communication episode (OB278). Have you done a systems deep dive in your aircraft to determine how you would determine what to do in the event of lost comms? What tools can you bring with you on your next flight to add a layer of safety? We also discuss turns on final to build space and minimum runway separation for arrivals. Timely Feedback: 1 . PA...
May 08, 2023•1 hr 15 min•Season 1Ep. 279
Episode 278 Show Notes Topic of the show: On this week’s show, AG and RH share their opinion on a recent lost communication scenario in the NAS. What type of questions should a pilot expect to get after getting the airplane back on the ground safely? What considerations should be made during flight planning to account for the possibility of an emergency enroute? And what would ATC do in the case of lost communications with solid IMC in the surrounding area. Find out on this week’s show! Timely F...
May 01, 2023•1 hr 26 min•Season 1Ep. 278
Episode 277 Show Notes Topic of the show: RH and AG discuss the assignment of VFR flight following codes in busy Class Bravo airspace and how the services can be streamlined going in and out of an underlying Class Delta airport. Why do some controllers issue codes and some do not? Why is it so hard to get flight following when leaving certain Class Delta airports? We answer these questions and many more on another fun and entertaining episode. Thank you to all our new supporters! Timely Feedback...
Apr 24, 2023•1 hr 9 min•Season 1Ep. 277
Episode 276 Show Notes (revised) Topic of the show: On this week’s show, RH and AG describe ways pilots can utilize the tools in their airplane to set up and fly a visual approach. Can you follow the ILS glideslope or RNAV glideslope while you fly the visual approach? Where is the fix ATC just cleared me to and why are they using it? Find out some more tricks of the trade to be the best pilot you can! We also discuss the use of “over” in ATC communication, takeoff clearance checklist items, and ...
Apr 17, 2023•1 hr 8 min•Season 1Ep. 276
Episode 275 Show Notes Topic of the show: When you’re being vectored on the downwind over cold and unwelcoming waters, why can’t the controller turn you in closer to the final approach fix? When is it legal to give you a shortcut to keep you closer to the shore? On this week’s episode, we discuss the legality of close in vectors, the use of a visual or contract approach, and more of your aviation questions and feedback. You don’t want to miss this episode! Timely Feedback: 1 . PATRON Sierra Brav...
Apr 10, 2023•1 hr 13 min•Season 1Ep. 275
Episode 274 Show Notes Topic of the show: Sun ‘n Fun 2023: RH’s rookie year! What an awesome week working arrivals, departures, and wanding with gusto! RH breaks down each ATC spot with a little sample audio on each talking position. If you’ve ever wondered how the air traffic side of things work at Sun ‘n Fun, this is the episode for you! “Team 1, you guys were the best team a rookie could ask for and I appreciate all your help guiding me through my first year. I learned a ton from you and I ca...
Apr 04, 2023•1 hr 31 min•Season 1Ep. 274
Episode 273 Show Notes Topic of the show: This week’s show is about radar patterns. What can you expect when you arrive from the departure side of the airport? How can you plan your descent when you are being sequenced to the airport under VFR? Why do controllers keep you so far away from the field before placing you on final? We answer all these questions and also discuss ELTs, flight service, and using VFR/IFR flight plans depending on the complexity of the airspace. This is a really fun episo...
Mar 27, 2023•1 hr 19 min•Season 1Ep. 273
Episode 272 Show Notes Topic of the show: How can some airports run aggressive squeeze plays and compressed finals when some airports operate with much large gaps on a very slow final? On this week’s show, AG and RH discuss the major differences in airports that effect flow, efficiency, departure and arrival separation, and passenger experience. We also discuss how you can prepare for training in air traffic control. This is a packed episode and you don’t want to miss it! Timely Feedback: 1 . SG...
Mar 20, 2023•1 hr 14 min•Season 1Ep. 272
Episode 271Show Notes Topic of the show: What type of decision making and planning is involved when a controller takes decisive action to run a squeeze play? What is a squeeze play? Why is the anatomy of a squeeze play important when evaluating a given traffic scenario? This week’s show answers all those questions and dives deep into the parts of air traffic you don’t hear on the news. As always, we keep things general and hope our listeners learn something to be better users of the NAS. Timely ...
Mar 13, 2023•1 hr 24 min•Season 1Ep. 271
Episode 270 Show Notes Topic of the show: On this week’s episode we discuss air traffic controller tone, delivery, and pilot perception. Why do we sound grumpy sometimes? What factors contribute to the controller’s mood? We also discuss flight following, the importance of filing a VFR flight plan, and more of your awesome aviation questions and feedback. This was a really fun episode that you don’t want to miss! Timely Feedback: 1 . Patron WTF told us about a local procedure to differentiate bet...
Mar 06, 2023•1 hr 22 min•Season 1Ep. 270
