While flying IFR between Indianapolis, IN and Columbia, MO my wife and I encountered some mild turbulence at 6000. She’s a nervous flier, so I decided it would be a good idea to find some smoother air.
Cessna N12345: Center, Cessna 12345 would like to climb to 8 for smoother air.
Center: 345, climb approved.
(After reaching 8000.)
Cessna N12345: 345 level 8.
Center: 345 it looks like you’ve picked up 10kts.
Mooney N23456: Center, Mooney 456 would like to pick up 10kts too!
Center: Mooney 456, climb approved.
Short Final…
Key Takeaways:
- A pilot climbed to 8000 ft to escape mild turbulence and find smoother air for a nervous passenger.
- Upon reaching the higher altitude, Air Traffic Control (ATC) noted the aircraft had gained an unexpected 10 knots of ground speed.
- Another pilot, overhearing the speed increase, requested and received approval to climb, presumably hoping to achieve a similar speed gain.
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