Short Final

Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • Air Traffic Control (ATC) observed a Cessna pilot flying significantly off course from their declared destination of Houston, Texas.
  • When questioned, the pilot eventually admitted to experiencing navigation problems.
  • ATC, having already suspected navigational issues, promptly provided the correct heading to guide the Cessna towards Houston.
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Overheard in IFR Magazine's 'On the Air' Section
Overheard in IFR Magazine‘s “On the Air”

On a recent trip from Illinois to Arkansas, we overheard the following exchange:

Razorback Approach: Cessna Two Three Tango, Razorback Approach. Have you changed your destination from Houston, Texas?

Cessna 23T: Razorback Approach, Cessna Two Three Tango. Thats a negative. Destination is still Houston.

Approach: Well Cessna Two Three Tango, on your current heading you are not going to even hit the state of Texas.

Cessna 23T: Approach, Cessna Two Three Tango … we are experiencing … nav problems.

Approach: Cessna Two Three Tango, we assumed that, too … turn right heading 179 direct Houston.

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