even the pros dont get it right

Olivier Demacon wrote:

Jay Somerset a écrit :

On Sun, 15 May 2005 20:51:43 +0100, "Chris" wrote:

Heard on London Airways today, NorthWest 43 called up at 'nine
thousand feet climbing to one five thousand feet' the controller ever
the diplomat asked 'northwest 43 can you confirm you are climbing to
Flight level 150?' 'Affirm came the reply'
mind you he was in some cruddy old DC-10 so he was probably busy
trying to keep it in the air.



In the US, flight levels start at 18,000. In Europe, they start much
lower.

This was just a terminology difference, and the controller was quite
correct
in ensuring there was no miscommunication. The pilot was merely
reporting
by reflex, forgetting for the moment that he was not within US airspace.

It happens.


I'd like to know what US pilots think of the FL rules in Europe,
starting at 3000 FT AGL, everyone uses standard 29.92" altimeter setting
(1013 mil). I guess the "logic" behind this is that everyone been on the
same altimeter setting, precise altitude separation is easier to get
than relying on everyone getting the proper "local setting" for the area
flown.

What do you think?

It seems that both systems work well. I can see some logic in the
European approach, but there are probably some drawbacks as well. I
can't think of any right at the moment though, I'll admit.

Matt