Opposing Bases: Air Traffic Talk

Episode 391 Show Notes

Topic of the show: In this episode, RH and AG revisit a recent ATC radar and radio outage to explore why some facilities/pilots can’t simply "call Center" when everything fails. They break down the structural differences between co-located and remote sectors and why redundancy didn’t work as expected. We also discussed a listener’s question about what happens when multiple aircraft are on conflicting courses: who has to move out of the way.

Feedback

1. SGAC Patron AD asks how controllers decide who to move out...

Episode 390 Show Notes

Topic of the show: On this week’s show, RH and AG discuss audio feedback from the Badger Pilot on best practices for conducting practice approaches if the tower is no longer participating in radar like services.  We also discuss parallel ILS/RNAV approaches, tons of checkride announcements, and more of your amazing aviation feedback/questions. 

Feedback

1. Patron EM asks about visual separation on parallel RNAV approaches.

2. Patron SG shared some great audio of his co-pilot’s radio skills.

Mentioned on the sh...

Episode 389 Show Notes

Topic of the show: On this week’s show, AG and RH discuss recent changes in how VFR only towers provide radar approach services to pilots.  Who has responsibility for approaches in the airspace, what facilities can provide radar services, and why is the change important for pilots to understand?  We also discuss VFR vectors, pinch hitter courses, and how a malfunctioning instrument caused a Blackhawk to stray into enemy territory.  This was a fun show!  Enjoy!

Timely Feedback:

1. Patron BGK sent audio and asked about our ATC equipment wishlist.

Episode 388 Show Notes

Topic of the show: On this week’s show, AG and RH discuss ATC communication and radar outages from the perspective of the pilot and the controller.  What are steps pilots and controllers can take to reestablish order and predictability when critical systems go down unexpectedly?  We also discuss a real-life backup handheld radio story, circling to land expectations and more of your awesome feedback.  This episode is packed with information you can use to safely operate in the NAS!

Timely Feedback:

1. British Patron CGS settles the deb...

Episode 387 Show Notes

Topic of the show: Staying On Your Toes, Sponsored by Patron DF

On this week’s show, RH and AG discuss staying current and expanding your horizons in aviation.  How do you gain proficiency and confidence?  Why is this so important in your aviation story?   We also discuss a popular EFB routing issue, base entry reporting, and more of your awesome aviation questions.  This week’s show is packed with aviation gold!  Enjoy!

Links: https://asrs.arc.nasa.gov/publications/callback.html

Timely Feedback:

1. Patron 1dullgeek responds t...

Episode 386 Show Notes

Topic of the show: VFR Vectors to Final. Sponsored by SGAC Patron SA On this week’s show, RH and AG discuss sequencing VFR’s to a Charlie airport and the etiquette involved on both sides of the mic.  We also discuss a real life center controller sighting, confusing late night flying mistakes, and more of your awesome aviation feedback. 

Links: https://youtu.be/Dml3O6Irmt0

Timely Feedback:

1. Army IP DS answers the radar altimeter question from last week, thanks!

2. Patron SRD answers the radar altime...

Episode 385 Show Notes

Topic of the show: When Airways Don’t Intersect Sponsored by SGAC Patron BD.  When your amended routing includes airways that look connected but actually aren’t, what could possibly go wrong? We break down a real-world clearance confusion, the LOA behind it, and why trusting your automation might land you in a holding pattern of regret.

Timely Feedback:

1. Patron SRS makes a great point about flying low level helicopters with NVG’s

2. Patron JB talks chain restaurants

3. SGAC JAS discusses descent planning...

Episode 384 Show Notes

Topic of the show: Mommy, Where do LOA’s Come From? RH and AG discuss Letters of Agreement between facilities. What are they, how do they work, why are they necessary?  We also discuss some more career feedback for aspiring professional pilots and air traffic controllers, losing radios and using a satellite phone, and more of your awesome aviation questions and feedback. 

Timely Feedback:

1. Patron SA offers wise advice to those early in their career search

2. Patron CSL responds to career day and gives advice for rotor heads

Episode 383 Show Notes

Topic of the show: Aviation Career Day #3, sponsored by Patrons and PayPal supporters!  On this week’s show, RH and AG discuss the details of a pilot or controller career.  We encourage everyone interested in these two career fields to ask questions, learn as much as you can about the field, and prepare for the inevitable challenges you will face in this industry.  We also discuss recent ATC hiring timelines (good news), phraseology, and more of your awesome feedback.  This show is packed with a lot of great material and you don’t want to...

Episode 382 Show Notes 

Topic of the show: On this week’s show, AG and RH dig deeper into the time building phase for pilots and the training marathon for air traffic controllers.  What do they recommend in these stages?  What makes someone a standout candidate for the professional level?  How can you prepare to get through this stage successfully?  We also discuss hold for release, filing flight plans, and more of your awesome feedback.  This was a really fun episode and you don’t want to miss it!

Timely Feedback:  

...

Episode 381 Show Notes 

Topic of the show: On this week’s show, RH and AG dig deep into the application process for ATC and professional pilots.  What are the prerequisites to apply?  What should you expect in the application process?  How do you choose the right flight school?  How do you prepare for the Academy?  We are starting a multi part series on the aviation careers we know the best.  We also discuss messy finals, why flight following can be very helpful near MOAs, and more of your awesome aviation feedback. 

Timely Feedb...

Episode 380 Show Notes

Topic of the show: On this week’s show, RH and AG discuss the hazards of helicopter wake turbulence and rotor wash.  Patron Alpha Delta shares an awesome example of how a pilot can mitigate the risk and how ATC can facilitate a solution.  Helicopter wake vortices present a hazard on the ground and for arriving and departing aircraft.  We also have follow up feedback on IFR releases from non-towered airports, center controller’s important work, and answer more of your aviation questions.  This episode is packed and you don’t want to miss it...

Episode 379 Show Notes

Topic of the show: The Wake Turbulence Wait Sponsored by Patron MC. RH and AG discuss the separation for wake turbulence and the various techniques used to achieve required separation at busy airports. What can a pilot say to ATC to avoid the awkward pause while waiting on the runway?  What is the tower controller doing to ensure a safe and legal distance between a heavy departure and subsequent traffic?  We also discuss “ATC Zero”, descent planning, and more of your awesome aviation questions. 

Links:

https://youtu.be...

Episode 378 Show Notes

Topic of the show: DCA NTSB Preliminary Report and Recommendations On this week’s show, RH and AG review some of the preliminary findings from the investigation and share our opinions on the recommendations.  We also play a public service announcement regarding drones, hear an awesome idea on night flight planning, and get to a mountain of your questions and feedback. 

Links:

https://i.imgur.com/ppGoL2q.mp4

Timely Feedback:

1. RW The TERPS Elf sends feedback about IFR Code issuanc...

Episode 377 Show Notes

Topic of the show:  On this week’s show, RH and AG break down the differences and possible traps in picking up your IFR clearance in the air vs. getting it on the ground.  What prevents a controller from issuing it immediately?  Why does the weather matter?  What can a pilot do to prepare for either method to get the best service?  We also discuss our severe reading challenges, magical phraseology the attorneys will love, and more of your awesome feedback!  This episode is packed with information you can’t find anywhere else and you...

Episode 376 Show Notes

Topic of the show:  Deconflicting Satellite Approaches, Sponsored by SGAC Patron AM On this week’s show, AG and RH discuss what happens when approaches to different airports conflict.  How does ATC ensure separation?  Who goes first?  When is the conflict resolved?  We also discuss more feedback about EDCTs, “say heading”, runway changes, and more of your awesome feedback.  This episode is packed with aviation gold and you don’t want to miss it!

Timely Feedback:

1. Controller CH responds to EDCTs

2. Patron NG also responds to EDCT...

Episode 375 Show Notes

Topic of the show: Runway Change and Approach Selection RH and AG discuss who makes the decision to change landing direction, what coordination gets accomplished, and the factors that play into this change.  We also discuss an exchange with an F-15 having landing gear issues, the current ATC hiring window, and more of you aviation questions and feedback. 

Links:

https://nasstatus.faa.gov

https://www.fly.faa.gov/edct/jsp/edctLookUp.jsp

https://www.faa.gov/atc-hiring

https://gener...

Episode 374 Show Notes

Topic of the show: The Opposing Bases Final Cross Maneuver, Sponsored by SGAC Patron AM On this week’s show, RH and AG discuss a parallel runway situation that involves opposing bases and crossing over a final. This scenario is very tricky for controllers and we will dissect what is happening here and the various options for both pilots and controllers.  We also discuss “hidden” radar facilities near Taylor Swift’s Hometown Delta, LAX Special Flight Rules, and more of your awesome aviation questions and feedback. 

Links:

https://nasstatus.faa.gov/

Episode 373 Show Notes

Topic of the show: Archie League and His Award. On this week’s show,  RH and AG discuss the Archie League Award for ATC, why it’s important and a quick rundown on Archie League himself, the first air traffic controller.  We also play the pilot’s prayer, discuss visual approach backups, and answer more of your awesome aviation questions and feedback. 

Links:

https://www.natca.org/2023/08/21/archie-league-and-the-genesis-of-federal-air-traffic-control/

https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/flythetransition/episodes/Episode-50---Inside-the-Tower--the-Cockpit-Opposing-Bases-RH-on-ATC--Airlines--and-Career-Shifts-e2ut9kg

2018...

Episode 372 Show Notes

Topic of the show: Wrong Runway Landing On this week’s show, RH and AG discuss a wrong surface landing event and the takeaways for users of the NAS.  We also discuss non-towered operations very close to a Charlie surface area and more of your aviation questions and feedback. 

Links:

https://www.avweb.com/features/when-brevity-leads-to-levity/

Timely Feedback:

1. SGAC Patron BJS takes a trip down memory lane on ASR approaches, ADF and no GPS.

Feedback

Episode 371 Show Notes

Topic of the show:

Off-Field Emergency Landing and CAP Response On this week’s show, RH and AG discuss the excellent response of both ATC and Civil Air Patrol to an off-field emergency landing.  What can controllers learn from this story that will help them be better prepared to respond to a pilot in distress?  What can pilots learn from the event?  We also discuss amazing glider records, European flight following, and more of your awesome feedback. 

Timely Feedback:

1. Patron EK sent feedback about OB 370<...

Episode 370 Show Notes

Our thoughts and prayers are with the families that lost loved ones in the tragedy over the Potomac.  There are no words to describe the pain you’re suffering and while a thorough investigation may answer your questions, it won’t bring your loved ones back. We are so sorry for your loss and want you to know the aviation community is right beside you in your time of need.  

This accident will define the next generation responsible for maintaining the safest airspace in the world.  Your lost loved ones...

Episode 369 Show Notes

Topic of the show: Flying Through Final On this week’s episode, RH and AG discuss the complexities of parallel visual approaches from both the pilot and controller perspectives.  What separation requirements exist?  What tools are available for the pilot and the controller when things don’t go as planned?  We also discuss patience on frequency, super top secret airspace rules, and more of your aviation questions and feedback.  This was a fun episode and you don’t want to miss it!

Links: The event discussed on today’s show: https...

Episode 368 Show Notes

Topic of the show: Flying Through Fires, By SGAC Patron CB. RH and AG read feedback from CB about being a firefighting pilot.  What type of training is involved?  How do you get qualified to fly in this type of operation?  How does this compare to military flying? We also discuss situational awareness near Class Bravo airspace, facility tours, and more of your awesome aviation feedback.  This week’s episode is packed with nuggets of aviation gold.  You don’t want to miss it!

Links:

You Don’...

Episode 367 Show Notes

Topic of the show: Overcoming “Failures” on Checkrides By Patron DF  On this week’s show, RH and AG discuss getting through mistakes on checkrides and what we can learn from DF’s experiences.  How do you regroup after a mistake?  Can ATC help?  Is the examiner looking for your response to the mistake to determine if you pass or fail?  We discuss our own checkride experiences so you can learn from our mistakes.  We also review over water flight planning tools, fun interactions with ATC, and more of your aviation questions and feedback. ...

Episode 366 Show Notes 

Topic of the show: Flights of Firsts. RH and AG talk about why getting out of your comfort zone is important in GA flying, inspired by Patron CGS.  We also discuss the lessons learned in night VFR flying, the pitfalls of an unfamiliar airplane at night, and more of your awesome aviation feedback.  This episode is packed with aviation gold and you don't want to miss it!

 It's not too late to get OB MERCH: https://www.opposingbases.com/shop/

Nominations for the 2024 OBEY Awards are being accepted now!  feedback@oppos...

Episode 365 Show Notes

Topic of the show: Night VFR Flying From Patron TH On this week’s episode, RH and AG discuss the separate night VFR rating in Australia and what it means for us in the US.  What should instructors emphasize in their student’s requisite night training to prepare them for the risks involved?  We also discuss electric air taxis, contract towers, and spin training.  This is our last episode of 2024.  Happy New Year!

Timely Feedback:

1. Patron ES discusses spins

2. Patron JW gets the shortes...

Episode 364 Show Notes

Topic of the show: What is Your On-course Heading? From Patron AS On this week’s show, AG and RH discuss “on course heading”.  What does it mean and why does ATC need to know?  We also discuss our opinions on the latest developments in New York airspace, Class C redesigns, and more of your awesome aviation feedback.  Merry Christmas!

Links:

https://reason.org/aviation-policy-news/newark-air-traffic-control-shifted-to-philadelphia-tracon/#:~:text=The%20long%2Dplanned%20move%20shrinks,of%2085%25%20fully%20certified%20controllers.

Timely Feedback:

1. Listener IP sent an arti...

Episode 363 Show Notes

Topic of the show: On this week’s show, AG and RH discuss risk vs. reward in flight training and ATC on the job training. Can trainers prepare students for real life scenarios if they protect the trainee from difficult and challenging scenarios?  Does the risk of spins outweigh the benefits of learning how to recover?  Does watching a student work a complex/busy scenario expose them to the risk of killing their confidence?  We also discuss taxi procedures, transponders, and a ton of new ratings.  This is an aviation packed episode and you...

Episode 362 Show Notes

Topic of the show: On this week’s show, AG and RH discuss the dreaded flashing red light from the control tower indicating it was unsafe to land.  The pilot was experiencing an emergency and determined landing was the safest way to conclude the flight.  Why would a tower controller deny a landing?  What other options does the pilot have during a no-radio emergency? 

Timely Feedback:

1. Patron KK shares some follow up about the nasty-gram from the airport authority regarding noise abatement.

2. SGAC Patron WC offer...

Episode 361 Show Notes

Topic of the show: On this week’s show, RH and AG share their thoughts about an airport sending a letter of admonishment to a pilot for not following a voluntary noise abatement procedure.  Are noise abatement procedures required or voluntary?  How can an IFR pilot comply with a noise abatement procedure while complying with an ATC instruction?  Why do neighbors complain about noise from the airport?  We also discuss the newest ATC dating app, reporting the airport in sight, and lost comms while VFR in a Class Bravo.  This episode is packed w...

Episode 360 Show Notes

Topic of the show: On this week’s show, RH and AG will make their pitch to the powers above to make Universal Flight Following Light a real safety feature in the NAS.  Why would both pilots and controllers benefit from this product?  How would we roll it out in the NAS?  We also discuss how sectors are divided, traffic alerts, and more of your fantastic aviation feedback. 

Links:

Technique: What's the frequency? By Tom LeCompte

https://www.aopa.org/news-and-media/all-news/2018/january/pilot/techniqu...

Episode 359 Show Notes

Topic of the show: On this week’s show, we discuss ASR/PAR approaches at TRIAD, filing instrument flight plans for local practice approaches, and best practices for VFR pilots that operate near any airport in the NAS.  This episode is packed with important aviation tips and tricks to keep you safe!

Timely Feedback:

1. TRIAD Vet/Cigarette Rookie Charles Delta shares some information about no gyro approaches at TRIAD back in 1954.

2. SGAC Patron ED explains how you can get experience flying a PAR/AS...

Episode 358 Show Notes

Topic of the show: On this week’s show, AG and RH discuss a very well prepared pilot’s plan and his backup to the plan during questionable weather.  What can pilot’s learn from this story that will help them better prepare for their next IFR flight?  What considerations are the controllers making during inclement weather that can have a positive outcome on the flight?  And most importantly, how do you become a better user of the NAS?  We also discuss creative center communication methods, a ground controller that loves his job, and mo...

Episode 357 Show Notes

Topic of the show: Not Getting Flight Following and Why It’s Bad. On this week’s show, AG and RH discuss how a flight following request would have prevented a near midair collision at a busy Class C airport.  Why is remaining outside the Charlie legal but not necessarily safe?  Can pilots get better service by simply calling ATC?  This incident got a lot of attention and we want to reiterate the controller did a great job!  We had a lot of fun recording this episode and you don’t want to miss it...

Episode 356 Show Notes 

Topic of the show: On this week’s show, AG and RH discuss a recent incident involving a taxiway collision between two airliners.  We discuss what happened and try to add something new to the conversation as it relates to our experiences as controllers and pilots.  There are many valuable lessons that can be learned from this event. We also discuss contract towers, ASR approaches, and more of your aviation questions and feedback.  This episode is packed and you don’t want to miss it!

Timely Feedback:  

1. Patro...

Episode 355 Show Notes

Topic of the show: On this week’s show, AG and RH discuss a recent flight in IMC where the pilot struggled and the controller kept his cool and offered the perfect mix of instruction and help which resulted in a safe landing.  Great job!  We also discuss invoking your OB Listener Card on a checkride, practice area frequencies, and more of your aviation questions and feedback.

Timely Feedback:

1. SGAC Patron AMM adds some commentary on glider flights.

2. SGAC Patron DB shares a nice note a...

Episode 354 Show Notes

Topic of the show: On this week’s show, AG and RH answer a tricky terrain question from a pilot departing a controlled airport.  What can pilots do to prepare for performance issues in terrain?  Does the issuance of a SID require any special consideration in high terrain?  And what other options existed for the tower controller to reach a safe outcome?  We also discuss impeccable podcast timing, a “curiosity mindset”, and “square your base to final” phraseology. 

Timely Feedback:

1. Patron CL puts the Sport medical discussion to bed...

Episode 353 Show Notes

Topic of the show: More Helene Response Discussion from Patron AJ and Podcaster AC-On this week’s show, AG and RH share some first-hand stories of the hurricane relief efforts in North Carolina.  Without general aviation and the volunteers on the ground, lifesaving supply delivery would have been delayed several days.  Great job, GA!

We want to thank all the volunteer pilots, the volunteer organizers, all those that donated time or supplies, the controllers working insane levels of traffic, and the volunteers at remote airports for supplying their communities with vital food, medi...

Episode 352 Show Notes

Topic of the show: Disaster Response by General Aviation with BK On this week’s show, we spend time speaking with Bravo Kilo and the response from general aviation during the most recent natural disaster.  Hurricane Helene has devasted our home state and general aviation is playing a huge role in delivering critical supplies to a community that has been completely isolated due to flooding, mud slides, road closures, and power outages. 

We need your help!  We have made a short list of local organizations where you can donate...