You talk at the start about the others you fly with also being apprehensive about flying in controlled airspace and talking on radios, so you steer clear. This means as time goes on your saturation point will become lower. Why not go out with one of these friends in the same aircraft and take turns - one flies, the other works the radios, then switch. You’re comfort level will increase quickly when you’re only concentrating on one thing, whether that be flying the aircraft or dealing with the radio. Eventually you’ll get your groove back.
yep all you gotta say is fly runway heading, cleared for takeoff 8JJ. not as bad as my worst call by any means when I said the F*** word over the radio after being cleared to land.
Airline pilot here. You did great, sounded like you knew what you were doing and the nerves didn’t come across on the radio. Nothing to be nervous about, when I’m flying around and hear you guys on the radio I’m jealous that you’re out having fun while I’m working. Love your videos.
Love it Trent....the honesty and transparency around being nervous talking on the radios and how you captured that. Many people should be able to relate to this. I fly in and out of the busy DFW Bravo airspace and come across pilots all the time that are uncomfortable or intimidated on the radios. You did a great job showing this "live". Great work on this video!
@@samuelsmith4813 Close but that won't quite get you by. That is actually part of the issue as people believe they have to read back what they were given. Especially in a busy class B. For instance, you wouldn't read back the winds that were given to him; as he knew wasn't needed. If you read back everything you were given you'd really add too much to the transmission. You wouldn't read back "watch for wake turbulence". Another example, when told to "Ident" you wouldn't need to read that back.....you would just Ident. That would be your way of communicating it back. Lots of other examples where you don't need to read back what you are given.
Absolutely!!! However, trying to get it out of my tongue-twisted mouth while trying not to hyperventilate because of nervousness...that takes it to a much more complicated level. Sometimes, I just want to make it back home to my little airport without crying.
@@michaelsteven1090 Nope, not at all. Easy stuff for certain. But many people struggle with it when they don't live and breath it on every flight. That's the point Trent is making.
You're doing just fine. Everyone gets intimidated flying in and out of controlled airports. I fly out of one under the Bravo curtain. I'm so used to talking to tower that I get intimidated in uncontrolled airports. Great video though and I'm glad you made it. There's been a great push recently for pilots to share their mistakes and weaknesses and I love it. We're human and not perfect, but as pilots we all try to make people think we are. Thank you for sharing this.
Tower: "Say intentions" Me: "Well I hope to have private pilot training done in about a month, then I want to start on my Instrument rating, maybe one day CFI"
When he says “radar contact I see you at 1,600” You say “ that’s a big 10 4 good buddy, rolling on strong at 16 lookin for some open black top to set this rig down on breaker breaker”
"I can't hold them, there's too many of em !" "Stay on target ! Stay on target !" "It's just like shooting Whomp rats back at Beggar's Canyon" are all acceptable responses.
I would suggest that Trent try get rid of some fier w/ Tower!3D Air Traffic Control | Flight Simulator (probably would help) - practice more practice! Fight fire w/ fire !
I love this video. Simple, humble vulnerability that is useful to anyone learning to fly. Thanks for sharing and your honest approach to sharing your experience. :)
When I was a student pilot in the late 70's, my instructor told me all you ever have to do is tell ATC who you are, where you are and what you want to do. It's never failed. You DON"T have to sound like a line captain. BTW.... you did GREAT.
LOL, You did great man. Talking on the radio was probably the most intimidating part of flight training for me. Flying in Socal busy airspace you've got no choice but to talk someone over the radio while your right hand is constantly pushing buttons to change frequencies. Intimidating at first but you learn to pick things up in no time.
Very enjoyable! I just blew through 2,700 hrs, since taking my 1st flight lesson on my 65th birthday 9.5 years ago--and have never spoken to a controller, ever! You're making me want to go do it!
The most important things a pilot needs to know when they are in the air are the next 3 things. If you can anticipate the calls and handoffs it makes it easier and you are less tense. And you did a great job, having not done it in a while.
@@Gladius7 Very. Just like Trent you don't want to bother or cause harm to anyone because of you doing something wrong. Danger Close were the worse though, but at the time you don't have time to think about it.
@@jaytrock3217 Mate Thank you for your service. Yep that would be crazy no second guessing your self I bet. Have you seen a Movie called "Danger Close: The Battle of Long Tan" Its an Australian movie you might like it. I am Aussie to btw. But worth a look.
@@jaytrock3217 i know that feeling. Only one thing worse tho... That split second after calling for fire and even tho you checked several times you think... Did i just give the target grid or my own... Your eyes shoot to where you wrote it and a sigh of relief comes over
@@motionlessmerc8936 That is false, Trent was using MSL and tower was using AGL. Reno international field elevation is approximately 4400 ft. MSL. Trent said he was 6800ft MSL tower said he was 1600 AGL. 6800-1600=4400ft.
I learned in class C, but now days, flying 99.9% in the backcountry/off-airport etc. I feel the exact same way. Much rather face a short landing on a hill than deal with ATC.... lol.... funny how that works. I force myself to do the same thing you did now and then and it does help.... but it also gives me a headache and high blood pressure and I'm sure shaves my life expectancy down a bit!
I chuckled through the whole video. I fly out of Chino’s Towered airport and experience all that you demonstrated. It gets seriously more challenging when the operators are speeding up their communications because they have a lot of traffic. Sometimes I have difficulty just getting in touch with them as they are so busy with other traffic. Sometimes a 360 turn is the only way to avoid their space as you wait your turn on the radio. I think you handled it well. Im looking forward to some off airport stuff after 130 hours in my Kitfox now.
Chino is a fun place, did my first few hours of training there. You're not kidding when you say that place gets busy, flight school planes, warbirds, and biz jets all day!
A friend once pointed out that everything I wanted in life was on the other side of my comfort zone! I think about that often and push myself to get there and claim my prize. You did that here!
As a young pilot who flew in towered airspace only twice, it makes me feel less alone when I see someone with a lot of flying experience like you feel uncomfortable in controlled airspace. So thanks for that ! (also english isn't my main language so sorry if i did any mistakes)
English isn’t my 1st either, it’s East Texan, but I’m able to stumble through. It’s amazing how well those ATC dudes can handle just about any semblance of English or foreign accent.
I've mentioned several places that I got my airman's certificate in college and did not fly for 30 years and that I recently started flying again, My instructor, who had also a decade-long gap in his flying experience, mentioned that mike fright was probably going to be a thing. Even though we fly out of a controlled field, I was skeptical because I had trained originally at a class charlie airport, but it definitely was a problem. What I wound up doing was listening to LiveATC at that airport and pretending that every ATC call was for me, and I'd say the appropriate response out loud back to them. It seemed to work for me.
I was a cop for 20 years. When I first started I felt the same anxiety when talking to my dispatcher. I was afraid I wouldn't understand her, then look stupid to others with a panicked reply. It all went away when my FTO told me to slow down and think before I spoke. The extra second or two is not an issue. The anxiety at times, was almost crippling; I hated talking on the radio. I was originally taught to "get on and off" the radio; making transmissions quick but, until I got comfortable, I had to slow down.
My bonafides: Commercial/Instrument, trained at OPF in the '60s when it was the busiest airport in the world. 30 years in ATC, 25 of them in Chicago. I confess I was a center controller, but from our side, the rules/comms are exactly the same, center or tower. Here are a couple of observations: Don't get hung up on saying your callsign. When you're engaged in a series of transmissions which are obviously between you and the controller, it's patently apparent who you are. There is no need to engage in a rogering contest using your callsign on each transmission. It's also not necessary to read back EVERYthing. "318JJ, wind calm, runway 16R, cleared for takeoff," really only needs the read back on cleared to go, and frankly, in that specific instance, your accelerated movement onto the runway and down it is a pretty good substitute for a verbal readback. Although I've been retired a long time (22 years today), I've been nauseated by the increase in the use of the nauseaatingly Hollywood terms of "roger that", and "copy that". Every "roger" (the approved phraseology) is an implicit acknowledgement of "that". And I don't recall seeing "copy" as a synonym to "roger" anywhere in the ATP (our procedures manual). Nothing is improved by adding "that". I'm sure I'm an increasingly minority opinion as I'm hearing it more and more even on the controller side. Doesn't mean I'm wrong. Just keep in mind that what a controller wants to hear on initial call up is "who am I, where am I, what do I want to do?" The rest is conversation. You ask, I respond. And no one in ATC, especially in the towers, is out to write up a pilot for poor phraseology. I say "especially in the towers" because that's where the lowest common denominator of flying experience is found. In the center, 99% of the users are instrument rated, which implies an advanced level of training and experience. At the towers, there are a lot of FLIB drivers with wet licenses. As a controller, we want to treat them equally. Sometimes that's beyond their competence level, but it doesn't take a lot to better the experience. Also keep in mind that a lot of controllers are also pilots.
As someone who did all of their flight training in class D and C airspace, ATC wasn’t ever something that scared me. It gets much easier the more you work with them, and 90% of controllers are nice people. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes because mistakes are how we learn! And just remember, controllers are humans just like you. As always, love the videos Trent. Hope to someday see the Freedom Fox in person.
I can't thank you enough for being so honest and making a video like this, Trent. I used to get so mad at myself during my training. I'd have no problem on the radio in the pattern at my little non-towered airport, but as soon as I was talking with ATC, I would stumble over my words. It's always been and remains to be the most difficult part for me. It is very encouraging and inspiring to learn that such a skilled pilot as yourself has similar experiences. For only 4 times into class C, you sounded great! I haven't flown into a towered airport in some years, but you've inspired me to venture back in soon. Love your videos man, keep up the great work.
Hey Trent, I learned in a Class C towered airport, John Wayne in Orange County. Sometimes, you can reply with your N# (last three if already been talking to them). After you have repeated your instructions and they give you more information, sometimes just before landing, you can respond with your last three to acknowledged the transmission. We live in super crowded airspace and sometimes have to wait to talk to SoCal Approach because they are so busy. And sometimes we are #3 following others and landing parallel to large aircraft. (There is a different tower radio for each runway) Good practice though! Glad to see you doing it. I remember how daunting it was to work the radio as a student and doing all the solo cross countries in the busy airspace. And I am still working on my tailwheel endorsement but have no plans for landing on mountain tops! Will start with big open deserts...
Trent, pilot edge is a great tool to practice communicating with ATC efficiently and effectively. Im a student pilot and its helped me gain confidence without leaving my house.
One of my first flights back into towered airspace after a 13 year break in flying I circled outside the delta for about 20 minutes trying to get the courage up to make the initial radio call lol
As an air traffic controller I can tell you for sure that you did fine. I completely understand being nervous, I was super nervous early on flying in controlled airspace too. Make sure to remember that the people on the other end are humans too and most of us want to serve you as the customer and help you get what you want. You did great, nothing to worry about.
I share the same struggles, I own and fly a Mooney and most places that my wife and I go, I try to avoid towers if possible. I'm based at an uncontrolled field as well. You actually sound seasoned on the radio compared to most pilots I hear while on frequency. Rock on man!
4 роки тому+5
Back when I was a student pilot on class B KLAX Airspace I used to get really nervous like that. I flew through the active Dodger Stadium TFR and was asked to call a number on landing. That was the scariest day of the year!
„Ready for take-off“ 😱 One of the main factors of the Tenerife accident and the reason why the changed the phrase. Loving the video though. Keep it up!
So many pilots are so and would never have posted themselves struggling like you did here. Very cool that you are humble enough to do so. I fly on the side. Only have a couple hundred hours. Only fly a couple times a month so I often feel rusty. Thanks for putting yourself out there. It helps us non-professionals feel part of the community.
That was a little awkward. 😎 I'm your polar opposite. I learned to fly out of Chicago Midway and had to deal with ATC and commercial airline traffic from day one. Intimidating, but by the time I soloed, no big deal. Bush landing? Never. 😄
Same, I have that experience out of KAUS. It's just something different I guess. You learn it with all the ATC and now when you have a lack of ATC feels weird to me.
Just Another Aviator yh uncontrolled feels a bit unsafe to me sometimes haha. Like I have to be on high alert the whole time cuz there could be a guy flying in without a radio or doing an opposite traffic pattern to me. With atc I just feel safe knowing they control everything hahah.
I was an Air Traffic Controller for the Army, and being based under the 2000 ft shelf of the Houston class B airspace, I am constantly talkint to ATC in some way. I still stumble on my words. I get flight following 90% of the time I fly, and I can tell you, even the commercial pilots mess it up.
Hi Trent, I enjoy your videos! I fly an Airbus at work and a drone for fun...... 😉 If it makes you feel any better I’ve heard much worse so called”awkwardness” by actual airline pilots on the radio. You are doing fine radio work and all it really comes down to is familiarity. Sometimes just responding with your call sign (letting them know you’ve heard) them is all that is really needed especially in situations where there’s no proper response)Keep up the great work sir!
Trent, as a 29 year retired air traffic controller and a private pilot since 1983, don’t worry about “clogging things up!” The controller will tell you if they are “unable” your request just as she did when you asked for a stop and go. I told all my ATC students when they were learning and getting exasperated, “We are here for them, they are not here for us!’ Good work learning!
It's nice to see someone that I see as experienced in flying having some anxieties and experiencing these "newbie" moments with you is very awesome. I look forward to the day I have the time available to dedicate to such a wonderful hobby of freedom. Keep em coming Trent! Ps. The house came out great!
Solid. At least you didn’t say “with you” or “ahhhhh...”. If you’re concerned about wake turbulence there is no penalty for waiting an extra 1-2 minutes. Good vid thanks!
A kindred spirit. By far the most difficult part of getting my pilot certificate was ... understanding what ATC [and other airplanes] are saying over the radio. And even when I could, to figure out what they mean or want is sometimes difficult or impossible. Great to hear Trent avoids ATC and controlled airspace as diligently as I do! Hahaha. BTW Trent, here is a free (sleazy) tip. When you first contact ATC (especially at a busy airport), tell ATC you're a student pilot. That sometimes helps a fair bit.
Having soloed at KRNO was definitely an experience... it was always interesting when the controller would put ya on 25/7 while sequencing the 737's on the perpendicular
I feel so much better knowing you hate and struggle with controlled air space and tower talk. It’s the one and only reason I haven’t got my pilot license yet. Love what you do, keep up the great work!!
As a member of the 'not a pilot yet' crowd I can so empathize with the intimidation of the radio and thank you so much for sharing this. It's actually comforting to see others do what I might also do in similar situations. It's actually encouragement to be better on the radio, at least for me. Thank you for sharing.
Hey Trent! Im a Approach contoller and most pilots say "position checks" when we radar contact them if that helps. but I don't think there's set phraseology for that and I think your transmissions sounded great 👍
Very fun watching that Kitfox at such a big airport. Taking off a few yards from where the roll started and climbing out before it even reached the displaced threshold. Great video!
Wow this was really really interesting and valuable. As someone who wants to get into flying - for me the whole ATC was in a box called 'someday I'll get to that, for now it's just polishing my flight control skills'. And this opened whole another level of understanding - that there is a world without ATC. I never knew it even existed :) Also was fun and entertaining to watch. Denied 'stop n go' - lol :)
"Position checks" instead of "sounds correct." Or you could have even just said your abbreviated callsign alone as an acknowledgement. The important thing is to read back instructions. Additional info can be acknowledged with your callsign or "Roger, [callsign]".
Great Video bro! If work takes you to Atlanta.. Siler Wings does a pilot luncheon at 57 th fighter group every Wednesday PDK airport.. considered you invited to show a video talk about your love of aviation and enjoy a free lunch on COl. Davidson.... Happy Holiday's to you and yours! Cheers from Hollywood South!
Trent you need to do this a little more often, it may come in handy some day when you need it! that way you are comfortable doing it.... do it enough it becomes second nature! use it or lose it! aside from that its the etiquette of proper flying not just the remote bush pilots or uncontrolled airspace way of doing things
@@nathansasse4655 I learned uncontrolled but under the Sea-Tac C and right up against the Renton Delta... my whole life was doing everything in my power to stay above local patterns but below the C and clear of the Ds.
Being an airline pilot we all do it. A lot of Class B have their own “lingo” and procedures so even we get tripped up sometimes when flying to unfamiliar Bravos. LOL @ requesting “stop & go” - DENIED 🙅♂️
You really put that kind of anxiety perfectly. Even though you do everything just fine, you still feel on the verge of doing something wrong, or that you actually are doing something wrong. All that can help with that is practice, so good on you for putting yourself out there and filming it too!
Learning flight in South Florida, where we have to talk to everyone... I have to admit that in flight communications with control has always been my most painful thing to do... Getting clearances and instructions down on the knee board and then making sense of it all was a hoot! Dropping a LIKE on your video! Watching and Supporting! Watching further... that ENTIRE experience is EXACTLY how I felt every single time I flew!
You did great, and I read a controller’s comment that when continuing back and forth ‘information’ you do not have to give your N or even part of it each and every time, they know who you are, but sign off with it. At times, just acknowledge with your short call sign, like when switching from tower to Departure and say See ya, or Gooday at the end. When acknowledging critical information, like cleared for take-off, crossing runways, cleared to land, then it is always correct to read back the ‘instruction’ and your full or partial contact . On initial contact always say your type aircraft. If the controller shortens your contact to the last three numbers/letters, then that’s the contact you use. If you hear a call sign similar to your own, then call with your type and full call sign. I really want to hear the tower say, ‘Alaska 321 cleared to land 9R, Caution wake turbulence, Freedom Fox just landed 9R’....LOL. You can listen to LIVEATC.com at certain large airports to tower and ground for the dialog. See ya! 🛫😎
When I started my IFR training and was in busy airspace I was the same as you are now, it was stressful AF, but after a dozen flights in busy airspace you get used to it , don’t worry too much about forgetting your tail number, if you’re responding with the information they’re looking for and your voice hasn’t changed in the last few seconds then they know it’s you and the time on freq is less
Same here. I got my primary training at a rural airport and did not do a lot of work at controlled fields, though did some for my cross countries. However, it was the instrument training and rating that really got me comfortable. I also will mention that a tower tour is very helpful also. Seeing things from the controller’s perspective and just talking with them and seeing that they are just like us can be very helpful.
You have as much right to be there and do what you want as any other aircraft! Don’t feel rushed, do what you need to do! It takes PRACTICE! You did well Trent!
The only mistake I really caught was ready for takeoff call. Only the tower says takeoff . We as pilots tell them we are ready for departure or ready in sequence. But still no big deal don't beat yourself up brother. Keep doing what you're doing and believe me it'll get easier and more automatic.
I wasn't really intending to criticize truthfully but they did just recently began enforcing that phraseology supposably that help to prevent runway incursions. Keep up the great work and awesome videos thanks Trent and Merry Christmas to you and your family.
@@kevincollins8014Its always good to get input to perfect our phraseology. If ever I meet a controller, Id like to ask what are pilots most annoying wrong calls.
I agree. Only the tower says "take off". When I'm cleared for takeoff, I reply " Nxxxx is rolling on xx, ..." (Technically it's more correct to always end with your tail number, but it's better declarative English with N number first.). I am always impressed, if not appreciative, by how towers are usually very accepting of nonstandard phraseology as long as it presents no ambiguity.
Great Video, but at 11:06 something really important (at least in europe): Only use "takeoff" to confirm your takeoff clearance! In your case "ready for departure" or "ready" would be correct. Reason for this is the accident at Tenerife. Just thought you might wanna know. :)
@@chrisbowpiloto I looked it up and in ICAO Doc 9432 it says "Since misunderstandings in the granting and acknowledgement of take-off clearances can result in serious consequences, care should be taken to ensure that the phraseology employed during the taxi manoeuvers cannot be interpreted as a clearance to enter the runway or to take-off." I think that's the "official" reason for it. :)
Thanks was about to write the same thing! It's really curious that the FAA has no rule for that! In my training in Germany they took that very seriously ...
I enjoyed watching this even more than I expected. The ATC com rust is something we have in common... and I learned that flying in controlled airspace is something I've done more than you have. I find that very encouraging. Thanks... I needed that!
You did just fine ! We aren’t that scary 🤗🤗
PS. That’s me on the other end !
Approach Control or Tower?
TowerFlower InControl So cool!
Yep still scary!! Talk way to fast for my country ears to follow,,
Tower!
That’s cool you commented on his post. Very cool.
You talk at the start about the others you fly with also being apprehensive about flying in controlled airspace and talking on radios, so you steer clear. This means as time goes on your saturation point will become lower. Why not go out with one of these friends in the same aircraft and take turns - one flies, the other works the radios, then switch. You’re comfort level will increase quickly when you’re only concentrating on one thing, whether that be flying the aircraft or dealing with the radio. Eventually you’ll get your groove back.
Darren Keast that is an excellent idea! I learned and taught others how to handle flight following by doing just that
Very good idea!
Darren Keast That's a great idea!
This is a very good idea...we do this in EMS as well... It makes sense, I imagine the commercial flights are doing something similar....👍👍👍👍
Excellent idea!
Your only radio call that made me smirk was reading back, “winds calm” on takeoff. Good work getting out of your comfort zone, Trent!
@@jeeefthegreat7555 wtf dude
@@jeeefthegreat7555 Don't project yourself onto others...
@@jeeefthegreat7555 Do you even fly airplanes? Or are you just here to act like a jerk? Only pilots are allowed to be jerks.
@@jeeefthegreat7555 Count me in!
yep all you gotta say is fly runway heading, cleared for takeoff 8JJ. not as bad as my worst call by any means when I said the F*** word over the radio after being cleared to land.
I imagine it’s kind of like driving on the freeway being surrounded by cops. You have no reason to be nervous, but you are.
I do, in fact, know just what you mean.
Yes
That’s exactly it.
LOL. Was a Motor Officer for 11 years of my 28+ years total LEO. I Loved having fun with fellow motorists when working. No worries folks.
This is exactly the feeling
Airline pilot here. You did great, sounded like you knew what you were doing and the nerves didn’t come across on the radio.
Nothing to be nervous about, when I’m flying around and hear you guys on the radio I’m jealous that you’re out having fun while I’m working. Love your videos.
Love it Trent....the honesty and transparency around being nervous talking on the radios and how you captured that. Many people should be able to relate to this. I fly in and out of the busy DFW Bravo airspace and come across pilots all the time that are uncomfortable or intimidated on the radios. You did a great job showing this "live". Great work on this video!
Just read back what you were given and comply!
@@samuelsmith4813 Close but that won't quite get you by. That is actually part of the issue as people believe they have to read back what they were given. Especially in a busy class B. For instance, you wouldn't read back the winds that were given to him; as he knew wasn't needed. If you read back everything you were given you'd really add too much to the transmission. You wouldn't read back "watch for wake turbulence". Another example, when told to "Ident" you wouldn't need to read that back.....you would just Ident. That would be your way of communicating it back. Lots of other examples where you don't need to read back what you are given.
Absolutely!!! However, trying to get it out of my tongue-twisted mouth while trying not to hyperventilate because of nervousness...that takes it to a much more complicated level. Sometimes, I just want to make it back home to my little airport without crying.
@@CorbinAviation but figuring out wasn't isn't needed is not difficult.
@@michaelsteven1090 Nope, not at all. Easy stuff for certain. But many people struggle with it when they don't live and breath it on every flight. That's the point Trent is making.
You're doing just fine. Everyone gets intimidated flying in and out of controlled airports. I fly out of one under the Bravo curtain. I'm so used to talking to tower that I get intimidated in uncontrolled airports. Great video though and I'm glad you made it. There's been a great push recently for pilots to share their mistakes and weaknesses and I love it. We're human and not perfect, but as pilots we all try to make people think we are. Thank you for sharing this.
The tower is so professional...you know they were thinking how awesome it was to have the Freedom Fox at their airport!!!
Tower: "Say intentions" Me: "Well I hope to have private pilot training done in about a month, then I want to start on my Instrument rating, maybe one day CFI"
🤣
@@TrentonPalmer Thanks for the vids... super motivational!
Haha, this just happened to me the other day...
YES! 🤣
did you get it done??
When he says “radar contact I see you at 1,600”
You say “ that’s a big 10 4 good buddy, rolling on strong at 16 lookin for some open black top to set this rig down on breaker breaker”
Or just say...bleep blop ack ack ack..ack ack..speak Zorg to them
Eric with three last names. Lol
"I can't hold them, there's too many of em !" "Stay on target ! Stay on target !" "It's just like shooting Whomp rats back at Beggar's Canyon" are all acceptable responses.
I just about fell off my stool laughing so hard
Proper response: “position checks”
Talking to ONE CONTROLLER - panic.
Talking to a quarter million UA-cam viewers, - no problem.
ljfinger 🤣🤣🤣
I would suggest that Trent try get rid of some fier w/ Tower!3D Air Traffic Control | Flight Simulator (probably would help)
- practice more practice! Fight fire w/ fire !
Nenad Kralj I don’t see how that analogy applies but yeah, Trent requires the practise
Talking to UA-cam, if it goes bad = downlikes
Talking to Tower, if it goes bad = death
thing is that he's talking to a camera
I love this video. Simple, humble vulnerability that is useful to anyone learning to fly. Thanks for sharing and your honest approach to sharing your experience. :)
When I was a student pilot in the late 70's, my instructor told me all you ever have to do is tell ATC who you are, where you are and what you want to do. It's never failed. You DON"T have to sound like a line captain. BTW.... you did GREAT.
LOL, You did great man. Talking on the radio was probably the most intimidating part of flight training for me. Flying in Socal busy airspace you've got no choice but to talk someone over the radio while your right hand is constantly pushing buttons to change frequencies. Intimidating at first but you learn to pick things up in no time.
yo mojo luv your stuff alot, keep it up
Hey bro love your stuff.
Very enjoyable! I just blew through 2,700 hrs, since taking my 1st flight lesson on my 65th birthday 9.5 years ago--and have never spoken to a controller, ever! You're making me want to go do it!
The most important things a pilot needs to know when they are in the air are the next 3 things. If you can anticipate the calls and handoffs it makes it easier and you are less tense. And you did a great job, having not done it in a while.
It takes a real pilot to show a video like this. My favorite one so far!
Reminds me when I first started to call in air strikes and artillery.
Yer that would be intense.
@@Gladius7 Very. Just like Trent you don't want to bother or cause harm to anyone because of you doing something wrong. Danger Close were the worse though, but at the time you don't have time to think about it.
@@jaytrock3217 Mate Thank you for your service. Yep that would be crazy no second guessing your self I bet. Have you seen a Movie called "Danger Close: The Battle of Long Tan" Its an Australian movie you might like it. I am Aussie to btw. But worth a look.
Danger Close: The Battle of Long Tan - Official Trailer ua-cam.com/video/_E0J11-rB7Q/v-deo.html
@@jaytrock3217 i know that feeling. Only one thing worse tho...
That split second after calling for fire and even tho you checked several times you think...
Did i just give the target grid or my own... Your eyes shoot to where you wrote it and a sigh of relief comes over
I’m very impressed you suit up and do what’s uncomfortable, and bring us with you. You did great!
"I'm at six thousand eight hundred"..."We've got you at sixteen hundred.".."Yep, that sounds about right." lol
they were talking to a different plane
@@motionlessmerc8936 That is false, Trent was using MSL and tower was using AGL. Reno international field elevation is approximately 4400 ft. MSL. Trent said he was 6800ft MSL tower said he was 1600 AGL. 6800-1600=4400ft.
Sam Sheffer Interesting. Never heard a class Charlie use agl.
@@SamSheffer117 That's some quick, and incorrect, maths... 6800ft - 1600ft is 5200ft, not 4400ft. :)
@@jaredvanbergen7904 lul
I learned in class C, but now days, flying 99.9% in the backcountry/off-airport etc. I feel the exact same way. Much rather face a short landing on a hill than deal with ATC.... lol.... funny how that works. I force myself to do the same thing you did now and then and it does help.... but it also gives me a headache and high blood pressure and I'm sure shaves my life expectancy down a bit!
I chuckled through the whole video. I fly out of Chino’s Towered airport and experience all that you demonstrated. It gets seriously more challenging when the operators are speeding up their communications because they have a lot of traffic. Sometimes I have difficulty just getting in touch with them as they are so busy with other traffic. Sometimes a 360 turn is the only way to avoid their space as you wait your turn on the radio. I think you handled it well. Im looking forward to some off airport stuff after 130 hours in my Kitfox now.
Hat off to you sir all that chatter give a lot of low time pilots the willies!! Very intimidating!!!
Chino is a fun place, did my first few hours of training there. You're not kidding when you say that place gets busy, flight school planes, warbirds, and biz jets all day!
At least he's not one of those guys who keys the mic and then rambles on forever.
I have flown over to Flo's for many years. Some weekends it can be very busy on the radio there.
I’m literally sitting in science class day dreaming of flying... sees Trent posts a video!!!
A friend once pointed out that everything I wanted in life was on the other side of my comfort zone! I think about that often and push myself to get there and claim my prize. You did that here!
Always a good day when a TP video posts. Enjoy your content greatly.
As someone who flies out of Charlie's and Delta's all the time, you did fine!
responding "affirm" is your best friend :)
Wilco and say again are also pretty good buddies :D
@@yoshyoka "Say again" is the motto of GA
@@BmHabib017 :D
Brian flying in Delta airspace can get really stressful
Me would be "Say What.....Repeat Please! Grounded. #must confess - - non pilot
When I was learning how to fly I had more anxiety talking to the tower than actually flying.
not unusual.
Me too.
As a young pilot who flew in towered airspace only twice, it makes me feel less alone when I see someone with a lot of flying experience like you feel uncomfortable in controlled airspace.
So thanks for that !
(also english isn't my main language so sorry if i did any mistakes)
I agree.
English is my first language, your's was spot on way better than my english :)
English isn’t my 1st either, it’s East Texan, but I’m able to stumble through. It’s amazing how well those ATC dudes can handle just about any semblance of English or foreign accent.
Steve Bodine- East Texan ,LOL!
I've mentioned several places that I got my airman's certificate in college and did not fly for 30 years and that I recently started flying again, My instructor, who had also a decade-long gap in his flying experience, mentioned that mike fright was probably going to be a thing. Even though we fly out of a controlled field, I was skeptical because I had trained originally at a class charlie airport, but it definitely was a problem. What I wound up doing was listening to LiveATC at that airport and pretending that every ATC call was for me, and I'd say the appropriate response out loud back to them. It seemed to work for me.
I was a cop for 20 years. When I first started I felt the same anxiety when talking to my dispatcher. I was afraid I wouldn't understand her, then look stupid to others with a panicked reply. It all went away when my FTO told me to slow down and think before I spoke. The extra second or two is not an issue. The anxiety at times, was almost crippling; I hated talking on the radio. I was originally taught to "get on and off" the radio; making transmissions quick but, until I got comfortable, I had to slow down.
FF here, I always tell cadets "It's a push-to-talk button, not a push to think button".
Probably the most honest aviation video I’ve ever watched. Great job!
My bonafides: Commercial/Instrument, trained at OPF in the '60s when it was the busiest airport in the world. 30 years in ATC, 25 of them in Chicago. I confess I was a center controller, but from our side, the rules/comms are exactly the same, center or tower. Here are a couple of observations:
Don't get hung up on saying your callsign. When you're engaged in a series of transmissions which are obviously between you and the controller, it's patently apparent who you are. There is no need to engage in a rogering contest using your callsign on each transmission. It's also not necessary to read back EVERYthing. "318JJ, wind calm, runway 16R, cleared for takeoff," really only needs the read back on cleared to go, and frankly, in that specific instance, your accelerated movement onto the runway and down it is a pretty good substitute for a verbal readback.
Although I've been retired a long time (22 years today), I've been nauseated by the increase in the use of the nauseaatingly Hollywood terms of "roger that", and "copy that". Every "roger" (the approved phraseology) is an implicit acknowledgement of "that". And I don't recall seeing "copy" as a synonym to "roger" anywhere in the ATP (our procedures manual). Nothing is improved by adding "that". I'm sure I'm an increasingly minority opinion as I'm hearing it more and more even on the controller side. Doesn't mean I'm wrong.
Just keep in mind that what a controller wants to hear on initial call up is "who am I, where am I, what do I want to do?" The rest is conversation. You ask, I respond. And no one in ATC, especially in the towers, is out to write up a pilot for poor phraseology. I say "especially in the towers" because that's where the lowest common denominator of flying experience is found. In the center, 99% of the users are instrument rated, which implies an advanced level of training and experience. At the towers, there are a lot of FLIB drivers with wet licenses. As a controller, we want to treat them equally. Sometimes that's beyond their competence level, but it doesn't take a lot to better the experience. Also keep in mind that a lot of controllers are also pilots.
So cool you took time to respond. Thanks!
roger wilco that!
As someone who did all of their flight training in class D and C airspace, ATC wasn’t ever something that scared me. It gets much easier the more you work with them, and 90% of controllers are nice people. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes because mistakes are how we learn! And just remember, controllers are humans just like you. As always, love the videos Trent. Hope to someday see the Freedom Fox in person.
Only 90? :^)
I was sweating while you did this. Its hard to believe how a simple thing like this is so stressful. Wow.
Dude I completely understand your anxiety 100% man. That shit stresses me out just watching videos of people doing it.
I can't thank you enough for being so honest and making a video like this, Trent. I used to get so mad at myself during my training. I'd have no problem on the radio in the pattern at my little non-towered airport, but as soon as I was talking with ATC, I would stumble over my words. It's always been and remains to be the most difficult part for me. It is very encouraging and inspiring to learn that such a skilled pilot as yourself has similar experiences. For only 4 times into class C, you sounded great! I haven't flown into a towered airport in some years, but you've inspired me to venture back in soon. Love your videos man, keep up the great work.
Hey Trent, I learned in a Class C towered airport, John Wayne in Orange County. Sometimes, you can reply with your N# (last three if already been talking to them). After you have repeated your instructions and they give you more information, sometimes just before landing, you can respond with your last three to acknowledged the transmission. We live in super crowded airspace and sometimes have to wait to talk to SoCal Approach because they are so busy. And sometimes we are #3 following others and landing parallel to large aircraft. (There is a different tower radio for each runway) Good practice though! Glad to see you doing it. I remember how daunting it was to work the radio as a student and doing all the solo cross countries in the busy airspace. And I am still working on my tailwheel endorsement but have no plans for landing on mountain tops! Will start with big open deserts...
The guys in the Alaska Airlines plane are probably saying holy crap its Trent Palmer !!!!!!
David Tesch 🤣🤣🤣
LMAO. I was thinking they probably wish they were flying that KitFox. But your comment cracked me up.
That’s exactly what I was thinking. I’d have said hi if that had been me.
Trent, pilot edge is a great tool to practice communicating with ATC efficiently and effectively. Im a student pilot and its helped me gain confidence without leaving my house.
You can use it with a lof fightsim programs...Jon Fy uses them in his videos...Good advice!!!
Golf cart battery charging
So is ‘Say It Right’ @ Air Safety Institute on the AOPA or Wings websites.
Great video,,,, and when you get out of your comfort zone,,,,, you become more comfortable! Thanks for taking us along!
Now I know why my plane was late taking off from RNO, it was because Trent was out there playing around.
I love Northern Nevada.
The most stressful part of my training. Thanks for taking me back there. (Stress level 10.) 😂🤣 Great job!!
One of the coolest things about aviation is that there’s always another challenge if you want it.
One of my first flights back into towered airspace after a 13 year break in flying I circled outside the delta for about 20 minutes trying to get the courage up to make the initial radio call lol
Trent, great idea for a video. We all have our things we are used to. Thanks for reminding us that we are all learning, all the time.
As an air traffic controller I can tell you for sure that you did fine. I completely understand being nervous, I was super nervous early on flying in controlled airspace too. Make sure to remember that the people on the other end are humans too and most of us want to serve you as the customer and help you get what you want. You did great, nothing to worry about.
I share the same struggles, I own and fly a Mooney and most places that my wife and I go, I try to avoid towers if possible. I'm based at an uncontrolled field as well. You actually sound seasoned on the radio compared to most pilots I hear while on frequency. Rock on man!
Back when I was a student pilot on class B KLAX Airspace I used to get really nervous like that. I flew through the active Dodger Stadium TFR and was asked to call a number on landing. That was the scariest day of the year!
One of my favorite vids so far. Really enjoyed this one.
Just doing a YT scroll and lucked into this great video...interesting, charming and full of humility...this guy would make a wonderful teacher.
I actually LOVED this. I’m not a pilot but am fascinated by it all and loved this. Truly.
I've always been nervous about getting my PL because of having to talk to ATC. Thanks for sharing that some experienced pilots even get nervous.
Nicely done! “Position and altitude checks” is what I say... or sometimes just roger
„Ready for take-off“ 😱 One of the main factors of the Tenerife accident and the reason why the changed the phrase. Loving the video though. Keep it up!
So many pilots are so and would never have posted themselves struggling like you did here. Very cool that you are humble enough to do so.
I fly on the side. Only have a couple hundred hours. Only fly a couple times a month so I often feel rusty.
Thanks for putting yourself out there. It helps us non-professionals feel part of the community.
I love all your videos Trent but this is one of your top ones. It was a very honest insight into your life as an airman. Thanks for sharing.
That was a little awkward. 😎 I'm your polar opposite.
I learned to fly out of Chicago Midway and had to deal with ATC and commercial airline traffic from day one. Intimidating, but by the time I soloed, no big deal.
Bush landing? Never. 😄
Same, I have that experience out of KAUS. It's just something different I guess. You learn it with all the ATC and now when you have a lack of ATC feels weird to me.
Same here , got trained in the North with two flight schools and a large cargo hub ..... steady jabbering
@@duncandmcgrath6290 it just adds that comfort in the back of mind.
Just Another Aviator lol my CFI called his 172 the flying radio.
Just Another Aviator yh uncontrolled feels a bit unsafe to me sometimes haha. Like I have to be on high alert the whole time cuz there could be a guy flying in without a radio or doing an opposite traffic pattern to me. With atc I just feel safe knowing they control everything hahah.
I was an Air Traffic Controller for the Army, and being based under the 2000 ft shelf of the Houston class B airspace, I am constantly talkint to ATC in some way. I still stumble on my words. I get flight following 90% of the time I fly, and I can tell you, even the commercial pilots mess it up.
Hi Trent, I enjoy your videos!
I fly an Airbus at work and a drone for fun......
😉 If it makes you feel any better I’ve heard much worse so called”awkwardness” by actual airline pilots on the radio. You are doing fine radio work and all it really comes down to is familiarity. Sometimes just responding with your call sign (letting them know you’ve heard) them is all that is really needed especially in situations where there’s no proper response)Keep up the great work sir!
Trent, as a 29 year retired air traffic controller and a private pilot since 1983, don’t worry about “clogging things up!” The controller will tell you if they are “unable” your request just as she did when you asked for a stop and go. I told all my ATC students when they were learning and getting exasperated, “We are here for them, they are not here for us!’ Good work learning!
It's nice to see someone that I see as experienced in flying having some anxieties and experiencing these "newbie" moments with you is very awesome. I look forward to the day I have the time available to dedicate to such a wonderful hobby of freedom. Keep em coming Trent! Ps. The house came out great!
Solid. At least you didn’t say “with you” or “ahhhhh...”. If you’re concerned about wake turbulence there is no penalty for waiting an extra 1-2 minutes. Good vid thanks!
A kindred spirit. By far the most difficult part of getting my pilot certificate was ... understanding what ATC [and other airplanes] are saying over the radio. And even when I could, to figure out what they mean or want is sometimes difficult or impossible. Great to hear Trent avoids ATC and controlled airspace as diligently as I do! Hahaha. BTW Trent, here is a free (sleazy) tip. When you first contact ATC (especially at a busy airport), tell ATC you're a student pilot. That sometimes helps a fair bit.
ha ha, he's known on UA-cam by far too many!
Having soloed at KRNO was definitely an experience... it was always interesting when the controller would put ya on 25/7 while sequencing the 737's on the perpendicular
I feel so much better knowing you hate and struggle with controlled air space and tower talk. It’s the one and only reason I haven’t got my pilot license yet. Love what you do, keep up the great work!!
As a member of the 'not a pilot yet' crowd I can so empathize with the intimidation of the radio and thank you so much for sharing this. It's actually comforting to see others do what I might also do in similar situations.
It's actually encouragement to be better on the radio, at least for me.
Thank you for sharing.
Hey Trent! Im a Approach contoller and most pilots say "position checks" when we radar contact them if that helps. but I don't think there's set phraseology for that and I think your transmissions sounded great 👍
“I might be a little rusty with towers so I’m going to fly into one.”
*chooses a busy class C airspace*
Could've been a Bravo
There is no other tower airport near Reno
Very fun watching that Kitfox at such a big airport. Taking off a few yards from where the roll started and climbing out before it even reached the displaced threshold. Great video!
Thank you for showing a weaker side... I have always choked up with radios and it was great hearing you fight through that "fear".
5 touch and go landings this morning at KRTS this morning for me. Final landing at KRNO. Almost 10 hours logged.
and so What
Wow this was really really interesting and valuable. As someone who wants to get into flying - for me the whole ATC was in a box called 'someday I'll get to that, for now it's just polishing my flight control skills'.
And this opened whole another level of understanding - that there is a world without ATC. I never knew it even existed :)
Also was fun and entertaining to watch. Denied 'stop n go' - lol :)
I'm a simple man...
I see a Trent Palmer video, I press like.
Yup, there's a lot of that going on!! ;^)
Lol. Merry 🎄
So true :-P
Do you wait till the end so that way it doesn't feel disingenuous
@@mattmansell3486 I press "like" near the beginning.
Thanks for sharing this. You are not alone (at all) with your apprehensions.
That's precisely the way I would feel too Trent; nice to know I'm not alone.
We're neighbors, I 4wheel near your runway all the time
"Position checks" instead of "sounds correct." Or you could have even just said your abbreviated callsign alone as an acknowledgement. The important thing is to read back instructions. Additional info can be acknowledged with your callsign or "Roger, [callsign]".
Great Video bro! If work takes you to Atlanta.. Siler Wings does a pilot luncheon at 57 th fighter group every Wednesday PDK airport.. considered you invited
to show a video talk about your love of aviation and enjoy a free lunch on COl. Davidson.... Happy Holiday's to you and yours! Cheers from Hollywood South!
Trent, thank you for your honesty, of your fear of ATC. I have learned that practice makes me more comfortable. Thank you again for the inspiration.
Love the transparency of this Trent! I know so many people can relate to these intimidations whether their egos are willing to admit it or not.
I started my flight lessons at a towered airport to get used to talking with ATC. Makes it much easier to get comfortable with it.
Trent you need to do this a little more often, it may come in handy some day when you need it! that way you are comfortable doing it.... do it enough it becomes second nature! use it or lose it!
aside from that its the etiquette of proper flying not just the remote bush pilots or uncontrolled airspace way of doing things
lol, I learned in a class D, so I get freaked out when there is no tower
Lol, yeah, same here :D I know my procedures around towered airport, but I am a bit at a loss as to what to say around uncontrolled ones.
Same, class D under a class C, uncontrolled freak me out.
@@nathansasse4655 I learned uncontrolled but under the Sea-Tac C and right up against the Renton Delta... my whole life was doing everything in my power to stay above local patterns but below the C and clear of the Ds.
So kinda like swimming in a pool with no lifeguard and just a sign that says "swim at your own risk"?
Same! Class C. I'm far more comfortable in ATC - it's like someone's holding my hand. Not like the wild wild west of class G
Hats of to ya, great job and you unashamedly hung it all out there for all to see and hear. Thank you so much for being human. ❤🇺🇸❤
Did awesome. Thanks for sharing so openly
Being an airline pilot we all do it. A lot of Class B have their own “lingo” and procedures so even we get tripped up sometimes when flying to unfamiliar Bravos.
LOL @ requesting “stop & go” - DENIED 🙅♂️
I thought a stop and go was a bit hopeful too!
I think she had to. If that airbus had to go around, we wouldn't want it to go *through* Trent.
Didnt know a kitfox came with a "hot seat", lol.....
"Argh, I didn't say my tail number again!" - at least you didn't refer to them as your home airfield. Twice...
You really put that kind of anxiety perfectly. Even though you do everything just fine, you still feel on the verge of doing something wrong, or that you actually are doing something wrong. All that can help with that is practice, so good on you for putting yourself out there and filming it too!
Learning flight in South Florida, where we have to talk to everyone... I have to admit that in flight communications with control has always been my most painful thing to do... Getting clearances and instructions down on the knee board and then making sense of it all was a hoot! Dropping a LIKE on your video! Watching and Supporting! Watching further... that ENTIRE experience is EXACTLY how I felt every single time I flew!
You did great, and I read a controller’s comment that when continuing back and forth ‘information’ you do not have to give your N or even part of it each and every time, they know who you are, but sign off with it. At times, just acknowledge with your short call sign, like when switching from tower to Departure and say See ya, or Gooday at the end. When acknowledging critical information, like cleared for take-off, crossing runways, cleared to land, then it is always correct to read back the ‘instruction’ and your full or partial contact . On initial contact always say your type aircraft. If the controller shortens your contact to the last three numbers/letters, then that’s the contact you use. If you hear a call sign similar to your own, then call with your type and full call sign. I really want to hear the tower say, ‘Alaska 321 cleared to land 9R, Caution wake turbulence, Freedom Fox just landed 9R’....LOL. You can listen to LIVEATC.com at certain large airports to tower and ground for the dialog. See ya! 🛫😎
When I started my IFR training and was in busy airspace I was the same as you are now, it was stressful AF, but after a dozen flights in busy airspace you get used to it , don’t worry too much about forgetting your tail number, if you’re responding with the information they’re looking for and your voice hasn’t changed in the last few seconds then they know it’s you and the time on freq is less
Agree. Don't sweat the call sign thing. Also, getting instrument rating will get you comfy with ATC real quick!
Same here. I got my primary training at a rural airport and did not do a lot of work at controlled fields, though did some for my cross countries. However, it was the instrument training and rating that really got me comfortable. I also will mention that a tower tour is very helpful also. Seeing things from the controller’s perspective and just talking with them and seeing that they are just like us can be very helpful.
LTVoyager absolutely right on.
@@LTVoyager And comforting. Definitely take a tower tour.
Well Trent, I'm a professional controller and I don't sound any better when I talk to a VFR controller.
You have as much right to be there and do what you want as any other aircraft! Don’t feel rushed, do what you need to do! It takes PRACTICE! You did well Trent!
It is cool watching pilots struggle. Im in heli-flight school right now at a towered airport so its nice to see that its not just me
The only mistake I really caught was ready for takeoff call. Only the tower says takeoff . We as pilots tell them we are ready for departure or ready in sequence. But still no big deal don't beat yourself up brother. Keep doing what you're doing and believe me it'll get easier and more automatic.
Well I just learned something! Thanks man!
I wasn't really intending to criticize truthfully but they did just recently began enforcing that phraseology supposably that help to prevent runway incursions. Keep up the great work and awesome videos thanks Trent and Merry Christmas to you and your family.
@@kevincollins8014Its always good to get input to perfect our phraseology. If ever I meet a controller, Id like to ask what are pilots most annoying wrong calls.
"We as pilots tell them we are ready for departure or ready in sequence." Or November XXX holding short 16 Right.
I agree. Only the tower says "take off". When I'm cleared for takeoff, I reply " Nxxxx is rolling on xx, ..." (Technically it's more correct to always end with your tail number, but it's better declarative English with N number first.). I am always impressed, if not appreciative, by how towers are usually very accepting of nonstandard phraseology as long as it presents no ambiguity.
I don't even fly, but I can see where I would rather land anywhere but someplace that crowded
Great Video, but at 11:06 something really important (at least in europe): Only use "takeoff" to confirm your takeoff clearance! In your case "ready for departure" or "ready" would be correct. Reason for this is the accident at Tenerife. Just thought you might wanna know. :)
Niklas that is interesting. It is not like that in the USA. I'll have to look up that accident
@@chrisbowpiloto I looked it up and in ICAO Doc 9432 it says
"Since misunderstandings in the granting and acknowledgement of take-off clearances can result in serious consequences, care should be taken to ensure that the phraseology employed during the taxi manoeuvers cannot be interpreted as a clearance to enter the runway or to take-off."
I think that's the "official" reason for it. :)
Neat, I learned something new. We definitely have procedures to limit that, but not using the word "takeoff" prior to being cleared is not one of them
Hey Niklas, where do you fly out of? EDHE by any chance?
Thanks was about to write the same thing! It's really curious that the FAA has no rule for that! In my training in Germany they took that very seriously ...
I’m glad I’m not the only one that gets a little caught up on the radio. Thank for the vid
I enjoyed watching this even more than I expected. The ATC com rust is something we have in common... and I learned that flying in controlled airspace is something I've done more than you have. I find that very encouraging. Thanks... I needed that!
Kudos for stepping out of your comfort zone.Just takes practice.