Short Final

Editorial Staff

Sunday, April 22, 2007 at 12:00 AM ET

Verified

Key Takeaways:

A pilot, recently upgraded to a Beech Baron and having completed specialized proficiency training, embarked on their first pilot-in-command flight into Orlando airspace.
During the flight, the pilot mistakenly contacted "Orlando Approach" while requesting Class B entry, but was corrected by "Tampa Approach."
The air traffic controller humorously pointed out the misidentification of the approach facility and playfully referenced the pilot's new aircraft type while assigning a squawk code.

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Overheard in IFR Magazine's 'On the Air' Section

After 10 years of flying a Twin Comanche, I upgraded to a Beech Baron. With the Beechcraft Pilot Proficiency Program in Lakeland, Fla. under my belt, I advanced the throttles on my first PIC flight into Orlando airspace.

Me: Orlando Approach, Baron Eight Two Four just off Lakeland, five miles to the east, out of 1,200 for 3,500. Would like to coordinate a Class B entry en route to New Smyrna Beach, VFR.

Approach [in a classic southern drawl]: Baron Eight Two Four, this is Tampa Approach, and if you dont call us Orlando, we won’t call you a Piper. Squawk two seven three zero and ident.