Short Final

Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • ATC instructed Delta 246 to climb and alerted them to traffic at their "three o'clock."
  • Delta 246 reported seeing the traffic at their "nine o'clock," indicating a directional misunderstanding.
  • The air traffic controller humorously clarified the discrepancy, stating, "That was three o'clock Zulu, nine o'clock local."
  • The pilot acknowledged the quick-witted recovery, confirmed the traffic in sight, and continued the climb.
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Overheard in IFR Magazine's 'On the Air' Section
Overheard in IFR Magazine‘s “On the Air”

A few winters ago over Missouri:

Center:
“Delta 246, climb and maintain FL350. Traffic three o’clock, 20 miles at FL310.”

Delta 246:
“Roger. Delta 246 departing FL310 for FL350. We see traffic at our nine o’clock position, level.”

Center:
“Ahh – roger, Delta 246. That was three o’clock Zulu, nine o’clock local.”

Delta 246:
“Nice recovery, Center. In sight off our left wing. We’re climbing to FL350.”


Bill Vancil
Fayetteville, Georgia

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