Bridging The Gap - ATC and General Aviation, December 27, 2015

SimpleFlight Radio

Before we say goodbye to 2015, let's say hello to a very important partner for General Aviation pilots, your friendly local air traffic controller. Marc welcomed Eddie Trujillo from C90 (Chicago Approach) to talk about his career and his current project, appropriately called "Bridge The Gap". The purpose of the program is to open a direct line of communication between pilots and controllers within Chicago airspace with the goal bridging the gap between them. This program may be starting in other areas as well. Regardless, the lessons are the same... open and direct communication will allow both pilot and controller alike to understand the other's perspective, ensure questions are answered, and the airspace is safer. An excellent exchange, you will surely enjoy.

Additionally, many listener questions came in, which Eddie was able to answer. That in itself was very enlightening and educational. And just to spice it up a little, Marc played an audio recording of a prior GA emergency, which highlighted the necessity for pilots to contact ATC at the earliest possible moment, in order to maximize the value ATC can provide, as well as the best odds for a safe outcome. Listen and learn!

Here's wishing all of our listeners and their friends and family, a 2016 filled with good health and much happiness. And of course....

Blue Skies & Tailwinds!