Short Final

Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • A pilot requested a specific type of radio frequency from ATC due to their radio only being able to tune frequencies ending in '0' or '5'.
  • ATC was unable to accommodate the pilot's limited radio capabilities and terminated radar services for the aircraft.
  • The article notes that some older aircraft radios require a specific action (pulling a knob) to tune to frequencies ending in '.25' or '.75'.
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I was tuned to Indy Center yesterday and heard this exchange with a plane on flight following:

Indy Center:
“Cessna 12345, contact Indy Center on 124.62.”

Cessna 12345:
“Can I have something that doesn’t end in a ‘2’ or a ‘7’?”

Indy Center:
“What was that request?”

Cessna 12345:
“Can I have a frequency doesn’t end in a ‘2’ or a ‘7’? My radio can only tune to frequencies that end in a ‘5’ or a ‘0.’”

[After a pause.]

Indy Center:
“Cessna 12345, we’ve got nothing for you. Radar Services terminated. Squawk VFR. Frequency change approved.”

Remember: You have to “pull” out the small knob on some older radios to tune in “.25” or “.75.”


Evan Jones

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