Short Final: Unkind Words?

Editorial Staff

Tuesday, November 05, 2024 at 06:41 PM ET

Verified

Credit: Jack Fleetwood via Plane & Pilot Magazine

Key Takeaways:

A Skyhawk aircraft (Skyhawk 1234A) was instructed by Houston Approach to maintain 4,500 feet.
The reason given was the presence of a faster Bonanza aircraft approaching from behind.
The controller's explanation was perceived as somewhat blunt or unsympathetic by the Skyhawk pilot.
The communication highlights the practical challenges of air traffic management and prioritizing faster aircraft.

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From IFR Magazine reader Jay Olmstead:

I heard the following flying through Houston’s Class Bravo:

Houston Approach: “Skyhawk 1234A, maintain 4,500. I was going to climb you but there’s a Bonanza coming up from behind and you’re just not fast enough.”

Skyhawk 1234A (laughing): “Well – that’s not very nice!”