Short Final: Question Time

Editorial Staff

Tuesday, September 26, 2023 at 05:06 PM ET

Verified

Key Takeaways:

Air traffic controllers are sometimes asked if they have time for questions from pilots.
Controllers usually have time to answer during slow periods but not during busy times.
Instead of simply saying "no," one controller responded by acknowledging the question but immediately prioritizing air traffic control duties.
This approach efficiently managed the pilot's question while maintaining focus on the primary task.

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As a controller, I occasionally get asked, usually (but not always) when it’s slow on the radio, “Approach, do you have time for a question?”

OK, when it’s slow then yes, I most likely have time and am happy to answer questions. But, if you ask in the middle of a busy session, then the answer is “no.”

One day, I tried another tactic instead of just saying “no.”

Pilot: “Approach, do you have time for a question?”

Me: “Yeah, but only for the one you just asked … Airliner 279, turn right heading ….”

Aaron Grijalva
Castle Pines, Colorado