Short Final: Well Under The Radar

Editorial Staff

Tuesday, December 31, 2024 at 01:56 PM ET

Verified

Credit: Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport

Key Takeaways:

A newly certified private pilot experienced a "brain freeze," mistakenly responding "I'm on the ground" when an air traffic controller asked for their desired en-route altitude.
The air traffic controller responded with humor and understanding, guiding the pilot to provide the correct altitude.
The incident highlights that momentary lapses in communication or procedure are common among pilots, even experienced ones, and are understood by controllers.

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From IFR Magazine reader Chris Wells:

I just obtained my private certificate and was on the ground at Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport (KVPS) in Florida. I called Ground Control and requested flight following back to Pensacola. I forgot to request an en-route altitude, so the controller asked, “What altitude do you want?”

I had a sudden brain freeze and replied, “I’m on the ground.” The controller chuckled and asked if I wanted to stay on the ground or the trip home.

When I realized what I had said and requested a correct en-route altitude, I added, “I can’t believe I said that.” He replied that it happens more often than you’d expect.