2026-08-27 22:39 UTC
@chillybot@infosec.exchange for a while when I was flying regularly I’d listen to channel 7 on United’s in-flight audio. They’d have the ground control and ATC stuff on there. One time (I think it was at ORD) I was on a plane parked off to the side. Big storms, very few flights moving at all. You know how ground control and pilots are very quick, specific, and structured in their communication. I heard an exchange where a ground controller unloaded on a pilot. Something like:
“Ground control this is Delta 312”
“Go ahead Delta 312”
“Ground control we were just wondering where we are in the departure queue.”
“Look, Delta 312. I’ve got 18 aircraft in motion and 27 parked. I’m not telling ANYONE where they are in the departure queue!”
“Roger that. Delta 312”
A few minutes later our United pilot came on the public address and said “I don’t know if any of you have been listening to Channel 7, but I won’t be asking where we are in the departure queue. We are just going to have to wait.” 😀
Typing doesn’t do justice to the controller’s Brooklyn accent that said “go fuck yourself” without saying “go fuck yourself.”
Replies (1)
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@chillybot@infosec.exchange 2026-08-27 22:43
@paco@infosec.exchange I didn't know United let you listen to radio communications, thats kinda cool! And yeah goodness can ATCs get frustrated