Short Final: The Forest

Monday, January 04, 2021 at 07:20 PM ET

Verified

Key Takeaways:

An air traffic controller requested a specific squawk code from a pilot, using standard aviation phraseology.
The pilot responded humorously, interpreting the "tree tree tree" part of the squawk code as "the forest."
The controller acknowledged the pilot's wit with a chuckle before confirming radar contact and clearing the aircraft.

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Departing Buckeye for Flagstaff, the Phoenix Departure controller was obviously a stickler for standard communications.

Phoenix: Two Seven Victor, Squawk Fife Tree Tree Tree.

Us: Okay, squawking five and the forest, Two Seven Victor.

Phoenix (chuckling): 27V, Radar contact, cleared on course, maintain VFR.

David Bunin