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daveatc · September 26th, 2006, 21:16

Most controllers are not pilots. As such, we don't always have a thorough understanding of the implications of various system failures. So, to err on the side of caution, if in doubt, ring it out. Ring that crash phone. I know that might wrinkle some pilots, as they are in charge, but when it comes to safety, we should go above and beyond.

The reg gives us controllers a VERY broad latitude in declaring for a pilot. All we have to do is say "In our judgment, the situation warranted it." No one will ever criticize a controller for ringing it out when they don't need to. Also, it may be a tower policy. That is also a possiblity. From a liability standpoint, especially if it's a contract tower, they will ring it out if they even think for a millisecond there's a possibility of things not working out well.

My recommendation is to flip the situation around. Envision the younger, less experienced pilot who might not be as savvy as you. Maybe a little hesitant to say "Emergency." They get in over their head. We've all heard of it, seen it, been there, etc. They don't say "emergency," and they definitely should have. Wouldn't it be better to have someone make that call for you? That's the way controllers should be thinking. Hope for the best. Plan for the worst.

September 26th, 2006, 21:16	#9
daveatc Former ATC Join Date: Aug 2006 Posts: 87	Re: Emergency?!? Most controllers are not pilots. As such, we don't always have a thorough understanding of the implications of various system failures. So, to err on the side of caution, if in doubt, ring it out. Ring that crash phone. I know that might wrinkle some pilots, as they are in charge, but when it comes to safety, we should go above and beyond. The reg gives us controllers a VERY broad latitude in declaring for a pilot. All we have to do is say "In our judgment, the situation warranted it." No one will ever criticize a controller for ringing it out when they don't need to. Also, it may be a tower policy. That is also a possiblity. From a liability standpoint, especially if it's a contract tower, they will ring it out if they even think for a millisecond there's a possibility of things not working out well. My recommendation is to flip the situation around. Envision the younger, less experienced pilot who might not be as savvy as you. Maybe a little hesitant to say "Emergency." They get in over their head. We've all heard of it, seen it, been there, etc. They don't say "emergency," and they definitely should have. Wouldn't it be better to have someone make that call for you? That's the way controllers should be thinking. Hope for the best. Plan for the worst.