ATC - Trust but Verify

A recent trip to Kentucky highlights an important lesson for pilots: ATC is human, too. I find that many newer pilots feel like, since ATC is the FAA and the FAA is our regulator, that means ATC is the authority. But, just like pilots, controllers can and do make mistakes. Just like we hear about there being a pilot shortage, there's an ATC shortage, too. That means existing controllers are often overworked and fatigued, and many controllers are new. Recent years have seen an alarming increase in ATC errors across the country.
This controller was dealing with a lot of traffic in the pattern. While he was very nice, he did not appear to have a plan regarding who would follow whom between traffic in the pattern and traffic coming in on a straight-in final. Or if it did, he may have gotten task-saturated and did not communicate the plan to the airplanes in question. Everything worked out fine, but spacing was tighter than I would have liked, and I wonder what would have happened had I not queried him about the traffic turning in front of us.
ATC is outstanding 99+% of the time, but they are not immune to error. If something doesn't seem right, speak up! Trust but Verify!
00:00 Takeoff, ventilation discussion
01:40 Arrival into LOU
05:57 Post hoc analysis
10:05 Takeoff LOU-LEX
11:15 Arrival into LEX
14:34 Departing LEX
15:40 Which sun shades for your Sling TSi
16:41 Arrival back home
17:27 Final approach and landing

[@neilmurgatroyd3197]

Yes, verify ATC, Pilot in Command can't relinquish the responsibility. It's (y)our arse on the line.
It's a timely reminder, thankyou. Great video👍

[@caseybarry5624]

Great video about real life flying! You did an excellence job of maintaining professional composure in spite of a patience testing situation. You also set a good example for your daughter to know that when difficulties arise, cool heads prevail.

[@onebravotango]

It's essential for pilots to actively communicate and clarify if something seems off, as you did. Safety relies on a collaborative effort between pilots and controllers. Trust their expertise, but maintain a vigilant attitude to ensure a safe flight. Your proactive approach sets a great example for others in the aviation community. Fly safely! ✈🛫

[@bendriscoll302]

I always tell my students it is OKAY to have a brief conversation on radio if it's in the interest of safety. Wanna ask if the downwind traffic sees you on the CTAF? Go for it. Wanna know if ATC is talking to the aircraft two miles behind you? Be my guest. If it keeps everyone on the same page you're not in the wrong.
AC 90-66 (which all pilots should read for operations at non-towered fields) just had an update in June to remove the recommendation to just keep it to standard call-outs.

[@TheBaldPilot]

@OneAlphaMike Really enjoy your ride along videos! I've learned a lot about the TSi from you and your content. In fact, you are a big reason why I made the decision to purchase the TSi kit. I just put my deposit down last week. (This will be my 2nd build). Would love to talk with you more about your Sling TSi. I just live up the road in Charlotte. Thanks, Mike!

[@OneAlphaMike]

Feel free to message me on FB.

[@justindwyer3430]

Another good video. I like how you conversationally asked ATC about the guy turning base. But, I have (another) question if I may. I know you are using VPX hence the lack of breakers. I am doing the same, but, I am being told I will need a few breakers for ECU power, Fues box, external alternator... How did you avoid having any CB's at all?

[@OneAlphaMike]

I dunno, I was told all I needed was one 30a breaker for the generator power. (I don't have the external alternator.) Maybe Aussie regulations?