Short Final

Back in the late ’90s, as a radio operator on MC-130E Combat Talons, I was returning to EGI from the East Coast. … As I neared home, the pilot asked: “R. O., see if we can get lower.” … I asked ATC for lower, as directed by the pilot. The kind folks at ATC denied our request. … The pilot was not happy, but, as we maintained altitude, I heard one crewmember ask why they denied us. … To which I replied: “Just another case of The Man keeping us up.” … I got silence from the crew, but giggles could be heard off mic. — Steve

Updated Jun 13, 2019 8:59 PM EDT

Back in the late '90s, as a radio operator on MC-130E Combat Talons, I was returning to EGI from the East Coast.

As I neared home, the pilot asked:
"R. O., see if we can get lower."

I asked ATC for lower, as directed by the pilot. The kind folks at ATC denied our request.

The pilot was not happy, but, as we maintained altitude, I heard one crewmember ask why they denied us.

To which I replied:
"Just another case of The Man keeping us up."

I got silence from the crew, but giggles could be heard off mic.

Steve

Editorial StaffAVweb