Short Final: Discreet Descent

Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • A Delta flight (Delta 123) received clearance to descend to 2400 feet.
  • The pilot's response included a pun, using "discreetly" instead of "discretion".
  • The communication occurred between Delta 123 and Oakland Center air traffic control.
  • The event took place during a flight from San Jose to Portland.
See a mistake? Contact us.

While flying from San Jose International airport to Portland International airport we heard the following:

Oakland Center: “Delta 123, cleared to descend pilot’s discretion to 240.”

Delta 123: “Delta 123 descending to 240, and we’ll do it discreetly.”

Daniel Sternbergh

San Jose, CA

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