Opposing Bases: Air Traffic Talk

Episode 345 Show Notes Topic of the show: Putting “Proceed on Course” to Bed. On this week’s show, AG and RH discuss the ambiguity of “proceed on course” for both VFR and IFR pilots.  We also discuss clearances to join radials, electrical issues at night, and more of your aviation questions and feedback.  This episode is packed with nuggets of aviation gold and you don’t want to miss it!   Links: https://www.ifr-magazine.com/charts-plates/cutting-you-loose/    Timely Feedback: 1. Patron SPE sent a quick announcement and note about OSH 2. Patron DF sends a story about an alternator failure 3. Patron PU talks joining VOR radials with Windy City   Feedback 1. Patron TW has questions on Proceed on Course 2. Patron BW gets jets sent over the top on final 3. Patron BZ has a local, heartwarming story.   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 feedb

Episode 344 Show Notes   Topic of the show: The Benefits of Simulation in Aviation On this week’s show, AG and RH discuss how simulators played a part in both the flying side of the mic and the air traffic side of the operation.  For general aviation and aspiring controllers, there is a world of online simulation that can provide a practical and realistic training environment.  We also discuss vectors to final, coordination for departures off airports near a boundary, and more of your awesome aviation questions and feedback.  This is a fun episode and you don’t want to miss it!    Links: TOP DOWN https://www.youtube.com/live/_haoRw-ZfNI Training Syllabus here  EVENT FOOTAGE https://www.youtube.com/live/ordoEySqahw Global Site: https://vatsim.net USA Site: https://www.vatusa.net     Timely Feedback: 1. Patron WTF talks about runway renumbering 2. Patron ACF decorates dead trees with useful aviation info 3. Patron BG solos at 16 and has a story   Feedback 1. Patron DGL sent audio feedba

Episode 343 Show Notes   Topic of the show: Lessons from Flight Following “Light” On this week’s show, RH and AG discuss what can be learned from dissecting the procedures used in flight following light operations.  Could this procedure be used across the NAS to improve safety?   What can be done while we wait?  We also discuss special ops helicopters, our experience at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2024, and more aviation questions.  This was a really fun episode and you don’t want to miss it!   Timely Feedback: 1. Patron AL sent audio feedback about OSH 2. Patron and Controller MK sent OSH feedback 3. Patron DS sent a question about airshows 4. Patron HTB sent a quick OSH feedback 5. Patron BB tells us what they wanted to say at the OSH meet and greet.   Feedback 1. Patron JC seconds the low altitude sentiment for the Hudson corridor. 2. G Model Driver JL takes on the Old Guard 3. Patron SA collaborates with Windy City controllers to achieve the unlikely.   Have a great week and thanks for l

Episode 342 Show Notes   Topic of the show: We are live from EAA AirVenture 2024 and hosted by AOPA!  On this episode, we introduce ourselves to our live audience and answer their questions about airspace, communication with ATC, and flying!  This was a really fun episode and we want to thank Patron JP (“JEF” from O-Bingo), AOPA for hosting the live show in their giant venue, all of our amazing Patreon supporters, and all of the attendees for making this our biggest live audience ever.  We had a blast!  Thank you for making this a special event!   Timely Feedback: 1. SGAC Patron RLH talks about DPE roles on checkrides 2. Patron CH expands on the Hudson Corridor 3. Patron SH explains new add ons 4. Patron DD asks about airline pilot currency 5. Patrons BS, EC, AJ, JEF, and TT send a very nice note about our show.  Thank you for your amazing support!   Feedback: Live questions from the audience!  Thank you for attending our 5th live show at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh!   Have a great week and th

Join us on Saturday, July 27th at 10am at the AOPA Pavillion for a live show! This episode is a promotion for the live show at AirVenture with some fun audio clips from previous live shows at Oshkosh.  Enjoy!

Episode 341 Show Notes Topic of the show: On this week’s show, we continue our conversation about mental health and offer some practical advice on how to move forward in a peer-to-peer environment while changes are made to the medical qualification process.  We heard from many of you and cannot thank you enough for sharing your stories.  We are doing our best to normalize the conversation and help aviators get the help they need while keeping their medical!  Timely Feedback: Lots of feedback about OB340 “Mental Health Matters”.  Thank you! Feedback 1. Patron WO shares some audio feedback about flight plans and amendments. 2. Patron SFC shares a story about mountain wave and a very helpful center controller (yes, they do exist).    Mentioned on the Show:   HIMS (Human Intervention Motivational Study): https://himsprogram.com/   No Man's Land: The Untold story of Automation and QF72: https://www.amazon.com/No-Mans-Land-untold-automation-ebook/dp/B07HCMF229   Max Trescott’s Aviation News Talk Podcast

Episode 340 Show Notes Topic of the show: Mental Health in Aviation by SGAC CB On this week’s show, AG and RH discuss the giant Penguin in the room: mental health.  We have strong feelings about this topic and want to normalize the conversation to help remove the stigma associated with mental health issues in aviation.  The FAA formed a mental health and aviation medical clearances rulemaking committee and said “Implementing the recommendations associated with these barriers will set the stage for a seismic shift in how the industry perceives and manages the risks associated with mental health conditions.”  We normally keep our show topics fun and entertaining but we feel it’s important to speak up about the issue and normalize the difficult conversations.       Timely Feedback: 1. Patron PV asks AG to recount his briefly mentioned story about the scope going dark. 2. Patron TW provides insight into why RH’s commute home was terrible. 3. Patron SVO sent audio feedback about a real NORDO scenario in

Episode 339 Show Notes   Topic of the show: On this week’s show, AG and RH discuss another legal interpretation about lost communications.  We offer our simple to follow advice on how to avoid this situation altogether and protect yourself in the event of an emergency deviation from the regulations.  We also discuss safety programs designed to protect pilots and controllers and enhance safety in the NAS.  The Opposing Bases 1980's rockband theme song is also included in this episode.  Enjoy!   Timely Feedback: 1. SGAC Patron SE shared feedback about a great procedure for flight following in the northwestern part of the US. https://mikekloch.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/rdm-corridor-exp-12-13-2025-003.pdf  2. Patron ES shares a New York Bravo story and the ease of a Class Bravo transition. 3. Patron CP really wants to see a full broadway production of OB, The Musical. 4. Patron AA has made a career change!  5. Patron AM shares a couple benefits of flight following we haven’t emphasized

Episode 338 Show Notes   Topic of the show: The End of Flight Following by Controller Charles Delta On this week’s show, AG and RH discuss the differences between flight following and the perceived safety of ADS-B only flying.  We discuss the advantages of flight following and how they outweigh any perceived disadvantage of engaging in flight following with ATC.  We also discuss VFR through Class Bravo airspace, callsign mismatch, and missed approaches protection after a practice approach.  This episode is packed with valuable content to make you a safer pilot and you don’t want to miss it!   Timely Feedback: 1. Patron JT makes fun of us for bungling up UK and ICAO flight levels 2. Patron JS discusses 747 touch and goes 3. Patron DJS asks about IFR vs VFR going through B airspace 4. Patron SY suggests a Patron discussion outlet for informal meetups (great idea!) Feedback 1. Patron NS sent audio feedback 2. Patron DE confesses their sin of transponder callsign mismatch and the jail time the sp

Episode 337 Show Notes   Topic of the show: On this week’s episode, AG and RH try to figure out why a tower controller was issuing confusing VOR radial intercepts after takeoff.  What can the pilot do to prepare for this type of clearance?  And how do you practice the buttonology necessary to perform the task under pressure?  We also discuss a new term for opposite direction traffic, tricky Class Charlie avoidance scenarios, and more of your aviation questions and feedback.  This episode is packed with aviation gold and you don’t want to miss it!   Mentioned on the show:. https://www.cartalk.com/content/staff-credits  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 record an audio message. Or you can send us comments or questions to feedback@opposingba

Episode 336 Show Notes   Topic of the show: Brashering Air Force 1: On this week’s show, AG and RH discuss what would happen if Air Force One didn’t follow ATC instructions.  Would we issue a brasher warning?  Why is this different than any other airplane?  We also discuss IFR filing tricks and tips, foreign airspace altimeter settings, and our advice for preparing for intersection departures.  This is a fun episode and you don’t want to miss it!   Timely Feedback: 1. Patron SB sent audio feedback 2. Patron WTF delves into the world of FRC hacks 3. Patron EW flew the Hudson skyline tour!   Feedback 1. Patron DF sent audio about staying current 2. Patron SG has intersection departure questions 3. Patron WTF drops knowledge on Transition Altitudes and Levels 4. Patron KK shares a story about a recent flight with accompanying question.   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 p

Episode 333 Show Notes   Topic of the show: Responding to Emergencies, OB Style On this week's show, AG and RH discuss a pilot's emergency when they lost all electrical power.  The pilot was prepared and took all the right steps to solve the problem safely!  Well done!  We also discuss "proceed on course", waffle house's ninja level ordering system, and more of your awesome aviation feedback and questions.  This was a really fun episode and you don't want to miss it! Timely Feedback: 1. Patron AJ details his tailwheel training 2. Patron ES suggests changing “proceed on course” phraseology. 3. SGAC Patron AM has a couple of questions about RTR’s at non-towered airports   Feedback 1. Patron NB announces his career change and ATP rating https://youtu.be/PvBS85pYsls.  2. Patron DG has a hypothetical about a non-existent approach clearance 3. Patron GK shares the incredibly complex Waffle House order system https://kottke.org/24/03/waffle-houses-magic-marker-system     Have a great week and t

Episode 334 Show Notes Topic of the show: The Sky Police Patron DG sponsors this weeks show topic about ATC policing the skies. RH and AG discuss what ATC actually does and cares about in maintaining order in the wild blue yonder.   Timely Feedback: 1. Patron AM asks about checking in with a controller working multiple frequencies 2. Patron JR responds to our feedback on his feedback from 333 and Antarctic Missions 3. Patron AR has additional insight into Fairbanks flying   Feedback 1. Patron AMB has additional feedback on their instrument ride 2. Patron NC has a Terps Elf question that gets answered https://www.faa.gov/air_traffic/flight_info/aeronav/procedures/ifp_initiation/ 3. Patron DG shares a screen shot of a timely pause on Penguin Airlines recently 4. Patron RR shares about starting again in aviation.   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.  K

Episode 333 Show Notes Topic of the show: Frequency Tips and Tricks On this week's show, RH and AG discuss feedback from Center Controller NP about tips and tricks for pilots on using ATC frequencies.  Pilots of all experience levels can benefit from these lessons.  We also discuss forced IFR cancelation, clearance limits, and keeping up with others in aviation.     Timely Feedback: 1. Patron SB sends feedback about the unusual configuration of Cambridge, Australia YCBG and Hobart YMHB 2. Patron ZW has feedback about clearance limits 3. Patron MH has a question and feedback about clearance limits 4. Patrom AMB discusses circling to land for part 121 operators   Feedback 1. Patron BAS sent audio feedback about unexpected pattern work 2. Patron BK has a couple questions about instrument training 3. Patron JL asks about our initial training in OKC vs current training 4. Patron CT asks about comparing personal progress to others in aviation 5. Patron JR shares about a recent trip to Antarctica

Episode 332 Show Notes   Topic of the show: On today’s show, AG and RH discuss the missed approach from both the pilot and controller side.  What can each side learn about the other to maximize efficiency and safety when a missed approach or go around is required?  We also discuss holding phraseology, safely executing missed approaches, and more of your aviation questions and feedback.  This episode is packed with aviation gold and you don’t to miss it!   Timely Feedback:   1.  Patron AM shares more details about the speed record between SFO and LAS.  Great job! 2.  Patron MK shared a diversion story.  https://youtu.be/_Blkt6w9Q1o?si=2WFmHQV7NeV5Zvod 3.  Patron CO shared a link to a new feature on ForeFlight: https://blog.foreflight.com/2024/04/22/a-reported-turbulence-map-layer-us-lowest-tilt-radar-and-more-in-foreflights-latest-release/#reported-turbulence 4.  Patron CO shares his advice for parents and the life skills your children must possess!   Feedback   1. PayPal supporter EF shared som

Episode 331 Show Notes   Topic of the show: Weather RH and AG discuss weather as it relates to ATC. Patron EG sent feedback about a resource she has created for increasing pilot safety! Bravo! https://www.youtube.com/@AeroSafe   Timely Feedback: 1.  Patron AW tells us tales of center superiority and flight data flight plan restoration. 2.  Patron CM from the frozen north sent audio feedback about the frozen norther. 3.  Patron SE sent two feedbacks about expected routing and sea plane bases. 4.  Patron BY talks about expected routing. 5.  Patron PS tells us about the lingo for the float plane fraternity Feedback 1.  THE Charlie Alpha sent feedback about the emerald city controllers and their amazing work. 2.  Patron AC sent a question about opposing and crossing downwinds. 3.  Patron MM sent a photo of a proposed airspace redesign at sunny southern airport. 4.  Patron DB tells us how AG hurt him and some comments about tower’s airspace, pointouts and audio sound bites.   Have a great week and t

Episode 330 Show Notes  Topic of the show: This week AG and RH discuss IFR departures off of non towered airports near airspace boundaries.  Does it make sense to call the adjacent facility airborne instead of the facility overlying the departure airport?  What is happening on the controller side of the equation with respect to your flight plan?  And what can the pilot do to facilitate a smooth transition from VFR to IFR?  We also discuss flying the Hudson River VFR corridor in a 737, miracle flight plan resurrections, and more of your awesome aviation questions.  This was a really fun episode and you don't want to miss it! 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 record an audio message. Or you can send us comments or questions to feedback@opposingbases.com. 

Episode 329 Show Notes  Topic of the show: This week AG and RH discuss Single Engine Escape maneuvers and making your own missed approaches. This show topic brought to us by Patron JEC.   Timely Feedback:   1. SGAC Patron SE discusses frequency changes to the same controller.  2. Patron TC talks about other uses for circling approaches in float planes.  Feedback  1. PayPaler CK send feedback about a facility tour.  2. Patron CW sent a story from Canada.  3. Patron KA sent a question about Climbing “via”  4. Patron NP sent a story about CA being on frequency and the codeword penguin.   Mentioned on the show: Culver Props https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jyhO2njfuwo, https://www.culverprops.com/CulverProps.html 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 websi

Episode 327 Show Notes  Topic of the show: This week AG and RH discuss etiquette for checking in on a new frequency, how long to wait, what things to listen for and what info ATC is looking for. Brought to you by Patron JF.  We also discuss some solar eclipse flying, ADSB mismatch rules, and more of your awesome aviation questions and feedback! Enjoy!  Timely Feedback:   1. Patron DWH sent the link to his Instagram:  https://instagram.com/dwhonan  2. Patron GNR sent feedback about tower tours.  3. PS sent audio about runway number changes.  4. Patron and controller BL sent feedback about Lake Hood and certifying controllers.  Feedback  1. Patron MK sent audio about ADSB mismatch issues. https://www.faa.gov/about/office_org/headquarters_offices/agc/practice_areas/regulations/interpretations/Data/interps/2017/Hayslett-AJM-2_2017_Legal_Interpretation.pdf  2. Patron MIK sent eclipse flying audio feedback and wanted to thank center controllers.  3. Patron JEC sent audio about pilots requesti

Episode 327 Show Notes  Topic of the show: This week AG and RH discuss visiting your local facility, the things to look for, the questions to ask, who to call, and the overall benefits of why you should bring donuts. Or pizza.  We also discuss timed out flight plans, TERPS and charting delays, true north, and many more of your aviation questions.   Timely Feedback:   1. RW The Terps Elf sends feedback about the runway numbering discussion in 326  2. SGAC CM from the frozen north has a question on how clearances get amended.  3. Patron DC sent a link to an initiative to convert all of Aviation to true north: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=toXsa7Dlq44  4. Patron MS sent audio feedback about practice approach phraseology.  Feedback  1. Patron JM sent audio feedback about flight plans disappearing.  2. Patron SW sent some great stats on airport density in the US.  3. BS from Midlife Pilot Podcast sent feedback about multiple day flight plans.   4. Patron DWH sent a note on a facility tou