Short Final

Editorial Staff

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

Verified

Key Takeaways:

A pilot, flying their newly acquired Beech Baron for the first time as pilot in command, contacts air traffic control for a Class B entry.
The pilot mistakenly addresses the controller as "Orlando Approach" instead of "Tampa Approach."
The air traffic controller humorously corrects the pilot, stating that if the pilot doesn't call them Orlando, they won't call the Baron a Piper (referencing the pilot's previous aircraft type).

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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.