Short Final

Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • After a VFR departure, a pilot contacted ATC for an IFR clearance and was given a squawk code.
  • ATC then gave the unusual instruction to "squawk Oscar November," indicating an issue with the pilot's transponder.
  • The pilot promptly understood the message and corrected the transponder problem.
See a mistake? Contact us.

After a VFR departure from a satellite airport, I called TYS approach.

Me:
“Knoxville, Cheyenne 1234 is off Morristown for a clearance to Nashville.”

Approach:
“Squawk 2345.”

Me:
“O.K., squawking 2345.”

[A bit of a pause.]

Approach:
“Cheyenne 1234, squawk Oscar November.”

I fixed the problem right away.


Billy Chandler

Sign-up for newsletters & special offers!

Get the latest stories & special offers delivered directly to your inbox

SUBSCRIBE