LiveATC Discussion Forums
Aviation => Pilot/Controller Forum => Topic started by: captray on April 24, 2010, 04:19:10 AM
-
This is a new one on me, while flying into the UK on Wednesday we heard on the guard frequency. 'Practice Pan, Practice Pan, Practice Pan.' I am guessing that this was a form of radio check but I am not sure.
Any ideas?
-
Hello captray,
In the UK the RAF specifically monitor 121.5 / 243.0 / 245.1 from either Swanwick or Prestwick Area Control Centres. This is known as D&D, who have overall executive responsibilty for aircraft emergencies in UK airspace. D&D are there to provide assistane to aircraft or other ATC units, and also facilitate aircraft practicing certain 'emergencies.'
A 'Practice Pan' is an aircraft calling the Distress & Diversion Cell (VHF 121.5) and either London or Scottish centres to practice some form of emergency. For exmple this pilot may have been practicing a diversion, so he/she called D & D to request position fixes or heading to the closest aerodrome.
Just out of curiosity, where did you fly into? Anywhere nice?
Casper
-
Thanks for the info.
We are in Birmingham, there always seems to be a street fair here. Lots of vendors and pretty girls to watch!
We used to go into Coventry but I got stuck there last time as they closed the airport.
Thanks again!