Opposing Bases: Air Traffic Talk

Episode 306 Show Notes   Topic of the show: On this week’s show, we discuss controller’s favorite approach: the contact approach!  Why does this procedure confuse controllers when it’s actually very simple?  What can you expect when you request this rarely used procedure?  We also discuss STARs, “I love ATC”, and more aviation questions.  This was a 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. Find us on twitter @opposing_bases.  Music by audionautix.com.  Third party audio provided by liveatc.net.  Friends of the show and maker of bags to protect your ATC headset from dust and germs: ATCSaks.com. Keep the gunk and funk away from yo

Episode 305 Show Notes   Topic of the show: Simultaneous IFR approaches to non-towered airports.   Timely Feedback: 1. Frozen North Center controller on VFR release of IFR and more. 2. Patron JP on VFR release of IFR departures. 3. Congrats on 305 episodes.     Feedback 1. Modest deviations on IFR FP by Patron EL 2. Patron KK on victor airway descents on IFR approaches.   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. Find us on twitter @opposing_bases.  Music by audionautix.com.  Third party audio provided by liveatc.net.  Friends of the show and maker of bags to protect your ATC headset from dust and germs: ATCSaks.com. Keep the gunk and funk away from your most valuable pil

Episode 304 Show Notes   Topic of the show: On this week’s show, AG and RH get into the details of a rare type of approach clearance.  What would we do as pilots if we received this clearance?  How would we issue the clearance as controllers?  And is there a regulation to establish an argument that it’s not only safe, but legal?  We also discuss pilot punishments, PIREP holds, and more of your aviation questions and feedback.  This is a packed episode and you don’t want to miss it!   Timely Feedback   1. Patron Bravo Mike shares some pro tips about navigating the Hudson with IFR and VFR. 2. Patron Mike Zulu shares some kind words about an underlying Delta facility.   Feedback 1. Patron Tango Charlie wants to know how we punish pilots. 2. Patron Alpha Juliet shared a story of being held on the ground due to a PIREP. 3. Patron Mike Romeo has introduced names for our future staff. Have a great week and thanks for listening!  Visit our website at OpposingBases.com You can support our show using Patreo

Episode 303 Show Notes   Topic of the show: On today’s show, AG and RH share some very exciting news!  We also discuss controller contrived missed approach instructions, med-evac call signs, and more of your aviation questions and feedback.    Timely Feedback: 1. Patron HTB shares the results of their ATSAP report.  2. Patron JM shares an idea on how the arrival deviation should have sounded. 3. Patron WTF files to a nearby VOR and continues VFR.   Feedback 1. Patron AW wants to buy a secret transponder decoder ring. 2. Patron BM would like to get our opinion on the use of Med-Evac call signs. 3. Patron PM wants to say thanks but not sound like they’re looking for a good time.   Mentioned on the show: Noble Flight Simulation https://www.nobleflightsim.com/, CSIP EW https://www.pinehurstaero.com/the-instructor 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 com

Episode 302 Show Notes   Topic of the show: On this week’s show, AG and RH discuss a complicated approach in mountainous terrain.  Why is the controller leaving the pilot high?  What routing may help the pilot comply with the approach using normal descent maneuvers?  We share our thoughts and some ideas on what this pilot can do next time.  We also discuss vectors to final at the last second, wandering luggage tugs, and more of your aviation questions and feedback.  You don’t want to miss this episode!   Timely Feedback: 1. Patron Mike Sierra shares a story about flight following near local TFRs. 2. Patron Tango Sierra is a newly minted multi engine ATP with a legacy carrier job! 3. Patron Sierra India from the Frozen North shares some fun facts about our credentials.   Feedback 1. Patron Juliet Hotel shares the penguin analogy with friends at his own risk. 2. Patron Romeo Charlie asks “why the vector” when they were already setup perfectly for an approach. 3. Patron Tang Mike The Fire Truck Guy s

Episode 301 Show Notes   Topic of the show: On this week’s show, AG and RH discuss a shortcut through a very busy Class Bravo area on an IFR flight.  Why was the original routing assigned?  How is it possible to fly directly over a busy airport?  And what can the pilot to do to plan for this type of routing?  We also discuss departing VFR looking for your IFR flight plan, remarks, and much more.  You don’t want to miss this fun episode!   Timely Feedback: 1. SGAC Patron Alpha Kilo asks about the use of ident and why it seems inconsistent in the NAS. 2. Patron Tango Alpha Charlie shares some terrible memories of the DME arc holding areas.   Feedback 1. Patron Bravo Kilo asks about departing VFR on on an IFR flight plan. 2. Patron Sierra Bravo asks about useful items to put in the remarks. 3. Patron Golf Hotel shares some thoughts on “practicable” and its eventual demise. Have a great week and thanks for listening!  Visit our website at OpposingBases.com You can support our show using Patreon or visi

Episode 300 Show Notes   Topic of the show: Episode 300!!!  On this milestone episode, AG and RH take a stroll down memory lane while answering listener questions about aviation, flying, and air traffic control.  We discuss flight plans, flight following, landing at a busy Class Bravo airport, emergencies, and much, much more.  This is a fun, entertaining, and educational episode you won’t want to miss.  Thank you to all our loyal Patrons, listeners, family, and friends for helping Opposing Bases make it this far in the podcast universe!   Timely Feedback: 1. SGAC Patron Sierra Hotel shares thoughts on the show after completing the full back catalog. 2. Patron Charlie Charlie says FIS-B does include PIREPS https://support.foreflight.com/hc/en-us/articles/205482988-What-weather-is-provided-by-ADS-B-   Feedback 1. SGAC Juliet Alpha Sierra asks about ADS-B and radar identification protocol. 2. Patron Echo Hotel asks about flight following codes at non towered airports. 3. SGAC Patron Bravo Delta has s

Episode 299 Show Notes   Topic of the show: On this week’s show, we discuss “descend via” clearances and the confusion caused by taking an aircraft off vertical guidance early in the procedure.  What could the pilots do differently to avoid any confusion?  How can the controller mitigate the risks involved in issuing new altitudes?  We also discuss missing aircraft after flight following and more of your aviation questions and feedback.   You don’t want to miss this episode!   Timely Feedback: 1. Patron CV shares the rule allowing students into Class A airspace. 2. Patron JM shared their NYC Skyline experience.   Feedback 1. Patron BP asks about how to report near misses in towered airspace. 2. SGAC Patron IC sent some questions about a recent trip in the Cirrus. 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 “Se

Episode 298 Show Notes   Topic of the show: AG and RH discuss a recent TRIAD emergency inbound flight.  What happened?  What advice to we have for the pilots and ATC?  How did prompt pilot decision making lead to a safe outcome?  We also discuss phraseology, clearances, and aircraft identification.  This is a packed episode and you don’t want to miss it!   Timely Feedback: 1. Patron TBP sent some clarifying comments about traffic direction. 2. Patron HTB shared more insight into the BT-13 military trainer. 3. Patron Romeo Charlie gives some more background on the coffee bravo practice approach.   Feedback 1. Patron JJ asks about squawking VFR when near/above Class Delta. 2. Patron DD asks about a short delay on the runway and hold short instrutions. 3. Patron KO showed patience and avoided a really confusing ATC mixup.   Mentioned on the show: RH and AG on the ABS Webinar: https://www.absweb.org/61.html Have a great week and thanks for listening!  Visit our website at OpposingBases.com You can s

Episode 297 Show Notes   Topic of the show: On this week’s show, AG and RH discuss the striking similarities between our jobs as air traffic controllers and real life police officers directing traffic.  Squeeze plays, confused drivers, violators, and those that simply don’t pay attention make for an interesting comparison to air traffic.  We also share our opinion on general aviation landers at Class Bravo airports, rant about PIREPs, and hear more of your awesome aviation feedback.  This is a fun episode and you don’t want to miss it.  Enjoy!   Timely Feedback: 1. Patron Mike Oscar shares some kind words about the AirVenture appearance.  Thank you!   Feedback 1. Patron Mike Oscar want to know our thoughts on general aviation landing at Class Bravo airports. 2. Patron Juliet Hotel asks about his PC-12 being ready at the end of the runway. 3. Patron Alpha Delta sent audio and a PIPEP question. Have a great week and thanks for listening!  Visit our website at OpposingBases.com You can support our show

Episode 296 Show Notes   Topic of the show: On this week’s show, we discuss controller hiring and location selection. AG and RH share their opinion on the process and offer some perfect world suggestions on how to solve some of our staffing issues.  We also share a recent story of RH going missing, unusual visual approach clearances, and more of your aviation questions and feedback.  This was a really fun episode and you don’t want to miss it!   Timely Feedback: 1. Patron Bravo Alpha Sierra gives a master’s class on NYC SFRA entry and exit.  2. Patron Kilo Kilo shared a story about old school AM radios and their tremendous range. 3. Juliet Sierra shares some fun facts about TRSAs and Class Delta radar control facilities. 4. Patron Bravo Kilo adds more to the Washington airspace conversation. 5. SGAC Patron Sierra Echo shares some more insight into the Moses Lake consolidation. https://tomdent.houserepublicans.wa.gov/2018/04/18/dent-says-faa-decision-to-leave-tracon-facility-open-in-grant-county-great

Episode 295 Show Notes   Topic of the show: On this week’s show, we discuss the rarely used “through clearance” and run a thorough cost benefit analysis of using this technique.  What about search and rescue?  What other options exist to mitigate the risks of losing communication with ATC on the ground?  We also discuss the perilous bike path near jet blast experienced by a listener, the dimensions of mountain airspace, and more of your awesome aviation questions and feedback.  You don’t want to miss this week’s episode.    Timely Feedback: 1. Patron Alpha Mike Bravo wants to know if we get a plastic card with ATC ratings. 2. Patron Whiskey Tango Foxtrot wants to know if the yeehaw state is special with regards to arrivals. 3. SGAC Patron Sierra Echo shares some more information on ANR headsets. 4. Patron Tango Foxtrot went on an unplanned airborne diversion while riding his bike!   Feedback 1. Patron Romeo Foxtrot shares a very interesting airspace story. 2. Patron Lima Sierra is starting their A

Episode 294 Show Notes   Topic of the show: When a general aviation propeller driven aircraft is assigned an arrival (STAR) into a giant Class Bravo airport, what should the pilot know ahead of time to prepare for the procedure?  Why does ATC assign them only to take an aircraft off of them later?  What is helpful for the terminal controller when establishing a sequence with faster jet traffic?  AG and RH break down the minutia involved in a STAR into a busy Class Bravo airport and answer a listener’s questions regarding execution of the procedure.  We also discuss headset issues, professionalism on frequency, and more of your awesome aviation questions and feedback.  This was a fun episode and you don’t want to miss it!   Timely Feedback: 1. Patron Alpha Yankee shares a checkride lost comms discussion. 2. Patron Romeo Whiskey suggest the reason we can’t find the NYC TAC in our EFB. 3. Patron Alpha Mike recognized the planes featured in an earlier discussion.    Feedback 1. Patron Juliet Mike Bravo

Episode 293 Show Notes   Topic of the show: RH took a solo trip in the mighty Skyhawk from TRIAD to NYC to fly the Hudson Skyline route with Newark and LaGuardia Tower controllers!  Special thanks to N90, EWR, LGA, and all the radar controllers along the way.  Are you considering a trip to NYC to fly up the Hudson?  We try to explain the planning and navigation to make the trip fun and safe!  We also discuss RNAV vs. ILS approach clearances and training in the radar room.  This was a really fun episode and you won’t want to miss it!   Timely Feedback: 1. Patron Sierra Mike sent some feedback about military flight training. 2. Patron Mike Delta shared some thoughts on reacting to stress and relying on training.   Feedback 1. Patron Alpha Delta asks about receiving an ILS clearance when setup for an RNAV which is identical. 2. SGAC Patron Kilo Juliet Papa Sierra asks about trainees monitoring their instructors.   Mentioned: link to NY SFRA training Have a great week and thanks for listening!  Visit o

Episode 292 Show Notes   Topic of the show: On this week’s show, we try to dispel some myths about Class Charlie airspace.  How can pilots position themselves to remain safely separated from airplanes operating in and out of busier Class C airports?  Why is flight following so important in these areas?  We also discuss a tower controller’s rude behavior during otherwise normal operations, special VFR, and more interesting aviation questions.  This episode is packed with aviation gold nuggets and you don’t want to miss it!   Timely Feedback: 1. SGAC Patron SB brought cancellation cookies to the live show!  Thank you! 2. RH misspoke on the live episode.  We clarify some comments about Special VFR. 3. Patron Hotel Golf shares a fan girl moment.   Feedback 1. Patron Delta Hotel asks about tower and clearance etiquette. 2. Patron ABM asks about delaying departures for approaches to a nearby airport. 3. SGAC Patron JAS ask about zig zag routing over water.    Mentioned on the show: Bold Method, Class C

Episode 291 Show Notes Topic of the show: Live from EAA AirVenture 2023 #OSH23!  AG and RH are joined by AirVenture ATC expert Bravo Kilo (his views and opinions are his own and he does not officially represent the FAA) and a live audience!  Penguin cookies, fly bys, and live feedback from our audience!  This was a really good time and we hope you enjoy the show!  Special Thanks: AOPA and Kim for hosting us at the AOPA 39 Lounge Patron and co-host Bravo Kilo from the JR Ewing Airport Patron JEF (VP of OSH Productions) for getting us here on time Captain Jeff from the Airline Pilot Guy Show for his live contribution Patron AJS for finally picking up his mug Patron JEC from the Rectangular Grits Bravo All those that showed up for the live show (AOPA’s biggest crowd in this space, ever) All those that wore Opposing Bases T-Shirts And our Patrons for their unwavering support of the podcast  Thank you! Have a great week and thanks for listening!  Visit our website at OpposingBases.com You can support

Live show recording with a live audience on Saturday, July 29, 2023 at AirVenture 2023.  Come out and ask a live question and meet RH and AG!  See you on Saturday!  10am, July 29, AOPA 39 Lounge across from the brown arch at AirVenture!

Episode 290 Show Notes   Topic of the show: On this week’s show, we discuss the importance of altitude selection and routing when you are flying near busy Class Bravo airspace.  Why does clearance delivery issue routing that doesn’t work for your entire route?  What can you do to ensure a smooth, reroute free, flight in the NAS?  What happens in the background during a reroute?  We discuss all of this and break down a recent IFR flight with 4 different reroutes.  We also discuss preferential routing, traffic management units (TMU), and ground metering.  This is an action packed episode.  You don’t want to miss it!  Congratulations to all of the checkride passes recently!  Keep up the great work!     Timely Feedback: 1. Patron Lima Delta shares how their airline handles intersection departure data. 2. Patron Mike Romeo is getting ready for retirement with a new rating! 3. Patron Juliet Bravo shares a checkride story.    Feedback 1. SGAC Patron Alpha Mike asks about TMU and Ground Metering.  What do

Episode 289 Show Notes   Topic of the show: On this week’s show, we discuss a listener’s “possible pilot deviation”.  Why did they receive the Brasher warning?  Who is waiting for the phone call?   What information will be requested on the initial phone call?  We share our opinions on the issue and discuss what administrative tasks are being completed, why the controller may have issued the warning, and the possible outcomes.  RH and AG also discuss a no radio landing, routing around Class Bravo airspace, and tons of listener questions.  You don’t want to miss this episode!   Timely Feedback: 1. Patron Tango Charlie shares an aviation backup radio hack. 2. Patron Badger Pilot shares his birthday ATC audio. 3. Patron Charlie Alpha says stamps are like $12 in her country. 4. Patron Mike Romeo successfully completed his multi-engine checkride with Captain Marines!   Feedback 1. Patron Alpha Foxtrot shares his no radio, nighttime landing at an unsuspecting towered airport. 2. Patron Tango Sierra asks

Episode 288 Show Notes   Topic of the show: On this week’s show, we discuss general aviation operations at busy Class Bravo airports.  Flying to a big airport can be intimidating so we offer some tips for the general aviation pilot.  How can you safely taxi behind a heavy jet and keep ATC happy?  What should you be prepared for when arriving or departing a busy, Class Bravo airport in your general aviation aircraft?  Our special guest, Bravo Kilo, is a friendly voice in a busy tower and shares his experience so your next flight is both fun and safe. We also discuss our schedules, frequency planning, and remote clearance etiquette.  This episode is packed and you don’t want to miss it!   Timely Feedback: 1. Patron CRO asks if we can use intersections to alleviate longer departure lines. 2. Patron “The Badger Pilot” shares a fun ATC story with remarks “I love ATC”.   Feedback 1. SGAC Patron Charlie Mike asks about our schedule and work/life balance. 2. Patron CLW asked about frequency planning on a cr