Short Final: Unable

Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • A pilot reported continuous moderate turbulence at 5000 feet and requested to climb to 6000 feet.
  • ATC initially denied the altitude request but approved it after the pilot stated they couldn't change radio frequencies due to the severity of the turbulence.
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On a bumpy day near New York City, we heard the following exchange:

Diamond 8DS: “New York Approach, Diamond Eight Delta Sierra. I’m getting continuous moderate turbulence at 5000. Request 6000. It looks like I’ll be on top at six.”

New York Approach: “Diamond Eight Delta Sierra. Unable 6000. Maintain 5000.”

Diamond 8DS: “Maintain 5000, Eight Delta Sierra.”

A few minutes later:

New York Approach: “Diamond Eight Delta Sierra. Change to my frequency 133.75.”

Diamond 8DS: “New York Approach: Diamond Eight Delta Sierra. Unable to change frequencies right now. I can’t keep my hand on the radio knob in this turbulence.”

New York Approach: “Diamond Eight Delta Sierra. Climb and maintain 6000.”

Diamond 8DS: “6000. Change to 133.75. Eight Delta Sierra.”

Oliver Aetna

Wickford, Rhode Island

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