uk
22nd Jan 2006, 17:53
Last week, I was the co-pilot when we developed an unusual problem with all three of our VHF comms boxes. All at once, the digital boxes decided they weren't going to let us change frequency and displayed "INOP" in every Active and Standby frequency window. Suffice to say, this presented us (and ATC) with an interesting scenario. We tried in vain to remedy the problem but to no avail. We were left with little option but to inform ATC and seek some help. (I don't know exactly what sector it was but we were between ORTAC and Goodwood for a WILLO3C into LGW).
To cut a long story short, we stayed on the frequency that we were on when the problem occurred (since we obviously couldn't change it) and ATC coordinated with all our subsequent sectors, relaying clearances to us. We completed a procedural ILS into LGW and were cleared to land by the upper-airspace controller at Swanwick! Has that ever happened before!? After landing, we were guided to our stand by a follow-me car. After all our passengers got off, the engineers arrived and to my knowledge, they are still investigating the probem, days after the incident.
The Captain and I would sincerely like to thank the ATCO(s) involved because as well as having us to deal with, the female ATCO was controlling a very busy London sector. Once again, you have re-confirmed NATS' reputation for providing the highest quality service - it's a pleasure to work with you and thanks to all involved in our "rescue". We hope it didn't cause too much disruption that day and we''ll try not to do it again!
To cut a long story short, we stayed on the frequency that we were on when the problem occurred (since we obviously couldn't change it) and ATC coordinated with all our subsequent sectors, relaying clearances to us. We completed a procedural ILS into LGW and were cleared to land by the upper-airspace controller at Swanwick! Has that ever happened before!? After landing, we were guided to our stand by a follow-me car. After all our passengers got off, the engineers arrived and to my knowledge, they are still investigating the probem, days after the incident.
The Captain and I would sincerely like to thank the ATCO(s) involved because as well as having us to deal with, the female ATCO was controlling a very busy London sector. Once again, you have re-confirmed NATS' reputation for providing the highest quality service - it's a pleasure to work with you and thanks to all involved in our "rescue". We hope it didn't cause too much disruption that day and we''ll try not to do it again!