Short Final

Editorial Staff

Monday, March 14, 2011 at 12:00 AM ET

Verified

Key Takeaways:

Memphis Center warned a Cessna pilot that a Military Operations Area (MOA) was "hot" and advised them to remain clear.
The Cessna pilot initially questioned the necessity of avoiding the MOA, implying they sometimes entered such areas if traffic was minimal.
ATC clarified the severe danger, stating there were four A-10 military jets operating within the MOA with their transponders off, making them invisible to radar.
Convinced by the high risk, the Cessna pilot immediately decided to remain clear of the MOA.

See a mistake? Contact us.

Memphis Center:
“Cessna 1234, the HOG MOA is hot. Recommend course or elevation change to remain clear.”

Cessna 1234:
“How many planes are in there? Usually if there’s only a couple, I’ll go on through.”

Memphis Center:
“Well, even if there’s only one, you’re supposed to remain clear. But we’ve got four A-10s with transponders off, and I can’t see them on radar.”

Cessna 1234 (laughing) :
“O.K., I think you convinced me to remain clear.”

Charles Lloyd
via e-mail