"Peter R." wrote in message
...

If only all controllers provided this exemplary service. One time last
summer, I overheard two different GA aircraft within a few minutes of
each other attempt to pick up their IFR clearances while in the air inside
Philadelphia Approach's airspace.

The controller, after hearing the second request, asked what is going on
here, then proceeded to lecture all listening that IFR aircraft should be
contacting flight service for clearances when in the air.

The controller then answered the second aircraft and told him to do just
that, then returned to servicing all other aircraft under his control.


Were they trying to file and pick up clearances directly with ATC, or were
they trying to pick up an IFR clearance on a flight plan they had previously
filed with FSS?

If they were attempting the latter, the controller's actions make absolutely
no sense. It's easier for him to issue the clearance directly than it is to
do it through FSS.