Short Final

Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • A 727 first officer recounts a memorable and unique coincidence experienced during a flight with Captain Chester Hector.
  • Their flight path was set to cross an intersection that was also named Hector.
  • The first officer humorously requested a direct vector to Hector for Captain Chester Hector, which was met with a playful response from air traffic control.
  • This event stood out as a rare and special moment in the pilot's 37-year career.
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Years ago, I was a 727 first officer and was flying with Captain Chester Hector. We were eventually going to cross an intersection called Hector.

I couldn’t resist. I got on the radio and asked:

“This is United 123. Captain Chester Hector requests a vector direct to Hector.”

Of course, the controller came right back and said:

“Roger dodger. Chester Hector is cleared direct to Hector.”

37 Years with the airline, and only once have I ever had that coincidence. It was a memorable moment for me at least.


Bob Morrow

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