Short Final

Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • Memphis Air Traffic Control (ATC) repeatedly instructed an unresponsive aircraft, Heavy Iron 123, to reduce speed.
  • ATC escalated its communication with a stern and slightly humorous warning about potential collision or a significant rerouting ("tour of the state of Alabama").
  • Following the urgent warning, Heavy Iron 123 finally acknowledged the instruction and complied by reducing speed.
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Overheard in IFR Magazine's 'On the Air' Section
Overheard in IFR Magazine‘s “On the Air”

Overheard near the Tennessee/Alabama border:

Memphis:
“Heavy Iron 123, reduce speed to 210.”

[no response]

Memphis:
“Heavy Iron 123, reduce speed to 210.”

[no response]

Memphis:
“Heavy Iron 123, reduce speed to 210, now. You’re about to knock the rudder off that traffic in front of you. Or, if you’d rather you can have a tour of the state of Alabama … .”

Heavy Iron 123:
“Reducing to 210.”

John Austin
Memphis, Tennessee

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