Mad_Jock,
I think everybody here agrees that the pilot is the commander of the flight, and has overall control. But you are missing the point from the ATCO's side. Most controllers will er on the side of caution, it is not difficult to downgrade an incident. But dare I say it a certain amount of pilots don't give the full picture.
As ATCO's we have the responsibilty to ensure the rescue services are at a point where they can quickly react if the situation doe's deteriate.
I agree that sometimes a fleet of rescue appliances may seem over the top for some 'minor' situations. Perhaps this is partly a symptom of an increased liability in our industry. But this will not stop me from judging the seriousness of a problem and reacting in a way I see fit at the time.
I have no problem about a GA pilot 'walking' back to the club house and telling his mates that was OTT.
PS. Can I use this as part of TRUCE?
