Short Final: Well Under The Radar

Editorial Staff

Tuesday, December 31, 2024 at 01:56 PM ET

Verified

Credit: Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport

Key Takeaways:

A newly certificated private pilot experienced a "brain freeze" during an ATC call, mistakenly replying "I'm on the ground" when asked for his desired en-route altitude.
The controller humorously clarified the request and reassured the embarrassed pilot that such communication errors are more common than expected, especially for new aviators.

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From IFR Magazine reader Chris Wells:

I just obtained my private certificate and was on the ground at Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport (KVPS) in Florida. I called Ground Control and requested flight following back to Pensacola. I forgot to request an en-route altitude, so the controller asked, “What altitude do you want?”

I had a sudden brain freeze and replied, “I’m on the ground.” The controller chuckled and asked if I wanted to stay on the ground or the trip home.

When I realized what I had said and requested a correct en-route altitude, I added, “I can’t believe I said that.” He replied that it happens more often than you’d expect.