Short Final: Ready For Departure

I was preparing for some instrument and maneuvering practice with my instructor, Andy. Sitting in the apron area in a Cessna 172 with the engine running, I made my initial call to Texarkana Ground as follows…

I was preparing for some instrument and maneuvering practice with my instructor, Andy. Sitting in the apron area in a Cessna 172 with the engine running, I made my initial call to Texarkana Ground as follows:

Me: "Texarkana Ground, Skyhawk 62689, Texarkana Flying Club; ready for departure with information Delta."

Texarkana Ground (in a completely serious voice): "Would you like to depart from where you are or would you prefer to taxi to a runway?"

I don't know who laughed harder, Andy or me. Regaining my composure, I assured the controller that I would certainly like to taxi to a runway prior to departure.

David F. Rankin
Magnolia, AR