Opposing Bases: Air Traffic Talk

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 and ATC 4. Patron RW sends audio about audio about asking ATC a question on frequency about boundary airport approaches.   Feedback 1. SGAC AM has a question about ‘interesting’ phraseology being used by ATC on a recent flight 2. SGAC Patron LS has questions for RH and AG 3. SGAC “Doc” sends ‘radical’ feedback from AME land   Have a great week and thanks for listening!  Visit our website at OpposingBases.com You can support our show using Patreon or visit

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 3. Patron AS has great info for would be CFI’s Feedback 1. Paypaller and controller PL says hello and gives advice to trainees 2. Patron RK sends questions about pilot’s discretion and opening and closing towers 3. Patron JD has a story about being NORDO in a helo.  Have a great week and thanks for listening!  Visit our website at OpposingBases.com You can support our show using Patreon or visiting our support page on the website.  Keep the

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 miss it!    Links: https://www.tsatestprep.com/atsa-practice-test/   Timely Feedback: 1. Controller SC discusses ATC hiring 2. Patron QZ sends a link to an ATSA test prep site 3. Controller ZB sends a hiring timeline for ATC   Feedback 1. Patron CM from the frozen north sends audio about phraseology 2. Patron JC sends a story about  Coffee with Controllers 3. Patron AMM sends audio about I LOVE ATC   Have a great week and th

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:     1. Cigarette Controller CD shares audio about tower closing time and the implications for IFR pilots with a clearance.  2. Controller TX shares what they do at their tower when they close.   Feedback:   1. Patron MWA shares some feedback about their pilot journey and flight plans. 2. Patron WM asks about converting from a TRSA to a Class C.  What happens?   Have a great week and thanks for listening!  Visit our website at OpposingBases.com You can support our show using Patre

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 Feedback:     1. Patron JB Alloonist shares some fun facts about VOR approaches. 2. Patron HTV is starting an aviation podcast.  Search for “Helicopter Training Podcast” in your favorite podcast player.   Feedback:   1. SGAC Patron AM shares a final approach sequence story.  What was happening? 2. SGAC Patron NB shares his experience training with the military and illustrates why flight following is critical near MOAs.  Check out his video: https://youtu.be/ka_5m69KCKs  

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!   Timely Feedback: 1. Patron DF sent audio follow up regarding towers closing after initial IFR clearance has been issued. 2. Patron CH (proud center controller) busts some myths about conflict en route. 3. Patron SRD send feedback about the DCA crash and taking advantage of every opportunity to see the world on overnights.   Feedback 1. SGAC Patron BJS shares a spatial disorientation story. 2. Patron CL shares a checkride story about holding.

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/5V0qz6VHyJU?si=tm6Df4WK2mc4hBqw   Timely Feedback: 1. Patron Mexico Victor sends a follow up story about airborne clearances 2. Patron AR puts to rest the toque debate with audio feedback 3. Patron DD sends a story about ZKC going ATC zero   Feedback 1. Patron CL asks if they are going crazy regarding class C entry requirements. 2. Patron GJ sent audio about a Triad flying experience 3. Patron ES shares life advice about listening speeds  

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 issuance 2. Patron PT asks about “maintain VFR” when getting an airborne IFR 3. Patron CH has follow up on TOQUE 4. Patron JM sends audio about Color Vision 5. Patron JL talks “School House Rock”   Feedback 1. Patron CL sends a story about a touch and go at Chicago O’Hare 2. DD sends a PSA about drones 3. MidLife Pilot BS2 sends a great tip on night flying   Have a great week and thanks for listening!  Visit our website at OpposingBases.com You can support our show using Patreo

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 don’t’ want to miss it!   Links: https://www.flysfo.com/sites/default/files/2022-09/Bay_Area_West_Plan_0.jpg - most of the time is “west flow"   https://www.flysfo.com/sites/default/files/2022-09/Bay_Area_Southeast_Plan.jpg - storms (often a low off the coast) cause “south flow”   https://www.flightsafetyaustralia.com/2024/08/the-skys-the-limit-for-colour-vision-deficient-pilots/     Timely Feedback:   1. SGAC Patron AM follows up on

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 EDCTs 3. SGAC Patron SE talks runway changes 4. Patron KR responds to his feedback from 375   Feedback 1. Patron BG sends info on color vision changes in the FAA 2. Patron PD has a couple questions on headings, bearings, and speeds. 3. Patron WM has an Autoland question for RH   Have a great week and thanks for listening!  Visit our website at OpposingBases.com You can support our show using Patreon or visiting our support page on

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://generalaviationnews.com/2025/02/28/atc-hiring-supercharged/   Timely Feedback: 1. Patron KR sends info on Expect Departure Clearance Times (EDCT)(pronounced edict) 2. Patron MM shares an EDCT “hack”, very sneaky! 3. Patron DJS sends a link about ATC Hiring, open until 3/17! https://www.faa.gov/atc-hiring   Feedback 1. Patron JAC sends audio about audio ringtone files 2. Patron EG sends additional info on the ONT class C airpsace 3. Patron MM asks about international phraseology   Ha

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/ https://asrs.arc.nasa.gov/publications/callback.html Timely Feedback: 1. Patron JS has a suggestion for Archie League awards 2. Patron BK sends clarification about twin feedback and has an announcement 3. SGAC Patron SE sends a great resource about EDCTS, delays, etc. 4. Patron AM sends info about NASA’s Callback publication. 5. SGAC Patron BJS sends encouraging feedback about Ep 371 Feedback 1. Patrom CM of the frozen north a

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 Archie Awards: President’s Award: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9bgzG9SAJuY for this save: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ROTcj9NkD7A     Timely Feedback: 1. Controller Charles Delta sent audio on flight following usage into Cigarette Airport 2. Patron JT sends info on CRJ climate control and warring zones 3. Patron JK sends follow up

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 1. SGAC AMM shares a “brevity for levity” article from IFR Magazine 2. Patron JT sent an audio question about frequencies 3. Patron JK sent a question about tight class C airspace, uncontrolled fields, and ATC.   Have a great week and thanks for listening!  Visit our website at OpposingBases.com You can support our show using Patreon or visiting our support page on the website.  Keep the feedback coming, it drives the show! Don’t be shy, use the “Send Audio to AG and RH” button on the website and re

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 2. Patron CA also sent a quick note about 370   Feedback 1. Patron LB sent feedback about flying in Belgium 2. Patron TWH sent a note about glider flying 3. Patron DGL sent audio about an emergency   Have a great week and thanks for listening!  Visit our website at OpposingBases.com You can support our show using Patreon or visiting our support page on the website.  Keep the feedback coming, it drives the show! Don’t be shy, use the “Send Audio to AG

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 will serve as vivid reminders that life is precious, our time on earth is often unfairly limited, and we must always strive to be better stewards of the aviation transportation system.     On today’s show, we will share our experience and hopefully give listeners the context they need to understand the accident and shape their safety practices moving forward.    Have a great week and thanks for listening!  Visit our website at OpposingBases.com You can support our show usi

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://youtu.be/vDLdCq_kAzc   A very detailed breakdown by Blancolirio on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pqpKjwX9Ku4   Timely Feedback: 1. Patron KS clarifies previous feedback and shows us Simon says t shirts   Feedback 1. Patron RL shares a situational awareness story 2. Patron JBD asks about supervisor preferences for the operation 3. Patron DF sent audio 4. Patron DZ sent quick audio about check in patience 5. Patron PV sen

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’t Have to Put on the Red Light http://cfi.tips/red, I fly with this headlamp: https://a.co/d/9nWPMnD     Timely Feedback: 1. Patrons SH sent follow up about his home Sim setup and copilot 2. Patron RD sent headlamp feedback, see links 3. Patron SB sent Night VFR flying feedback   Feedback 1. SGAC AM sent a question about satellite airport wildlife NOTAMs 2. SGAC JK sent highlights from a recent facility tour 3. Patron 1dullgeek sent a question about bickering on frequen

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.  This episode is packed and you don’t want to skip it.     Timely Feedback: 1. Patrons PS, MK and AS sent feedback about the sat phone topic 2. SGAC Patron RLH shares about a product for locating ships in real time over water 3. Patron AJ sent an announcement and feedback that is not short   Feedback 1. SGAC Patron SH sends a story about his granddaughters 2. SGAC Patron BJ sends a recap of his favorite 15 min of OB 3. Patron AMB sent

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@opposingbases.com Timely Feedback: 1. Patron CL talks night VFR flying 2. Patron DD sent audio feedback 3. Patron TH sent follow up feedback to 365 Feedback 1. Patron JG 2. Patron DS talks GPS phones 3. Patron TWH sent glider feedback Have a great week and thanks for listening!  Visit our website at OpposingBases.com You can support our show using Patreon or visiting our support page on the website.  Keep the feedback coming, it drives the show! Don