Short Final

Sunday, June 10, 2007 at 12:00 AM ET

Verified

Key Takeaways:

A pilot on a quiet early morning frequency attempts a casual radio check and conversation with Chicago Center.
The pilot jokingly requests "direct OHare" to the controller.
The controller wittily responds to the pilot's absurd request with an equally absurd counter-request for "world peace."
The exchange highlights a lighthearted moment between pilot and air traffic control during a low-traffic period.

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Overheard on Chicago Center at 4 a.m., with a female controller working a frequency with almost no traffic.

Cessna 3AB: Cessna Three Alpha Bravo, radio check.

Chicago Center: Youre loud and clear Three Alpha Bravo.

Cessna 3AB: Not too busy this morning?

Center: Its not even four oclock. Doesnt pick up for another hour.

Cessna 3AB: [two minutes later] Chicago Center, Cessna Three Alpha Bravo, request direct OHare.

Center: Three Alpha Bravo, how about world peace?

Cessna 3AB: Worth a try.