While working as a controller at Ellsworth Approach Control in the 80’s, I heard this exchange.
ATC: Western 474, Ellsworth Approach Control is utilizing a certain phase of the radar called circular polarization, which allows us to depict only the most severe areas of weather on the radar display.
[Long Pause…]
Western 474: Approach, say again, please.
[Without error, ATC repeated the alert, (which I had never heard before!)]
[Second Long Pause…]
Western 474: Approach, we don’t know what’s going on down there, but the co-pilot seems to think that somebody just circumsized a polar bear.
Short Final…
Key Takeaways:
- An ATC controller at Ellsworth Approach Control explained to a pilot that they were using "circular polarization" radar to depict only severe weather.
- The pilot of Western 474 was confused by the technical explanation and asked for it to be repeated.
- Despite the repetition, the co-pilot humorously misunderstood "circular polarization" as someone having "circumsized a polar bear."
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