Short Final: Glider Refueling

Monday, September 30, 2019 at 02:57 PM ET

Verified

Key Takeaways:

A pilot inquired about needing to alter their northbound departure path to avoid gliders operating near the airport.
Air Traffic Control responded by clearing the pilot direct north, stating the gliders were "down for refueling."
An unknown voice humorously questioned this statement, asking if gliders "refuel" by having more air put into them.

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My home airport often has gliders operating north of the field, which led to the following exchange:

Cessna C-FABC: Pitt Tower, C-FABC ready for takeoff 26L, northbound departure. I guess I’ll have to fly west for a while for the gliders?

Tower: Negative, I can clear you direct north; the gliders are down for refueling.

Unknown voice: What do they do, put more air in them?

Charlie Gibbs