Short Final…

Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • A pilot repeatedly provided vague responses to air traffic control regarding their intended descent altitude, stating they were descending "for the field."
  • Despite multiple requests for a specific altitude, the pilot failed to provide one, only referencing the field's elevation.
  • Due to the pilot's inability to provide the necessary specific information, air traffic control terminated radar services.
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Specificity 101

Heard on Philadelphia Approach:

Duke 1234: Philly Approach, we’re gonna begin our VFR descent for the field.

Controller: Duke 1234, say altitude descending to.

Duke 1234: We’re descending for the field.

Controller: Roger, Duke 1234, say altitude descending to.

Duke 1234: Well, the field elevation is 78 feet, so … hopefully, we won’t be going below that.

Controller: Squak 1200, radar services terminated.

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