AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER SPEAKS TO PILOTS' CLUB

Whether you're a seasoned veteran of the airways, a student pilot, someone who flies for fun or if you just have an interest in aviation, the Cape Pilot's Club has something to offer.

Sunday, Larry Davis, Cape Regional Airport tower chief, spoke with club members and guests on "Getting what you want from your air traffic controller."

The basic problem between controllers and pilots is miscommunication, Davis said. Air traffic controllers must live by the Aeronautical Information Manual 7110.65.

"This manual is our Bible," he said. The manual contains specific phraseology controllers use.

It shouldn't matter where you're flying into or out of, the terms should be the same, he said. The problem comes when controllers stray from the accepted language or pilots are not familiar with the correct terminology.

Controllers are taught very little about the aircraft themselves. Knowledge of the complexities of the planes lie in the hands of the pilots.

Pilots must also take into consideration controllers develop their own technique of standards that apply to incoming and exiting aircraft and will direct aircraft accordingly.

"The kind of service a pilot receives is completely determined by how he sounds on the radio," said Davis.

The controller can quickly tell if he's talking to a seasoned pilot or one relatively new to the procedures.

Davis wanted to make one thing clear. "Roger does not mean yes," he said. Many pilots will respond to a "Do you read?" with a "roger." This only means that the pilot has received the tower's transmission. Many pilots also end a transmission with "over." What the pilot is actually requesting is that the tower communicate with them again.

After his presentation, Davis participated in a question-answer session with members and guests.

Other seminars are planned by the Pilot's Club on a quarterly basis, with the next guest speaker scheduled for August.

For further information on club meetings, contact Bruce Loy, manager of Cape Regional Airport.