Short Final

Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • An air traffic controller at Jacksonville Center initially provided an incorrect heading (320) to an airliner, which was corrected to 230 after the pilot sought clarification.
  • Both the controller and the pilot engaged in self-deprecating humor, attributing such number mix-ups to a disproportionate number of "dyslexic" individuals in their respective professions.
  • The anecdote illustrates a moment of lighthearted banter and mutual understanding regarding common human errors in critical aviation communication.
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Heard over northern Florida last night:

Jacksonville Center:
“Airliner XYZ: Turn left, heading 320.”

Airliner XYZ:
“Is that a 320 heading for Airliner XYZ?”

Jacksonville Center:
“No, that should be, ‘Turn left, heading 230’ for Airliner XYZ. Sorry about that. Five out of four controllers are dyslexic.”

Airliner XYZ:
“No problem. Five out of three pilots, same thing. Airliner XYZ turning left, heading 230.”


Tom Ahonen
via e-mail

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