tim smith
SOUThwest RVP
"I have always been very thankful for my
fellow ATC brothers and sisters who are
also experienced pilots, as some situations
require more than just an experienced
controller. On September 16, 2014, Hugh
McFarland, both a highly experienced
controller and pilot, used those skills to
assist an aircra stuck on top of an 8,000
. layer. The pilot was VFR-only rated, and
Hugh went above and beyond to help this
pilot descend and navigate through thick
IMC conditions, from 8,500 to 700 ., where
he was able to get the ground in sight, and
land safely. Great job, Hugh!"
21
McFarland: Roger.
McFarland: N59G, doing great, about another 500 feet to go,
just continue southbound, heading 1-8-0, wings nice and level
at 1-8-0, and just maintain 2,000 when you get there. About
another 500 feet to go.
McFarland: N59G, when you're ready, just make a standard-
rate turn to the left, it'll be just about 10 to 15 degrees of bank
to the left, into a 0-9-0 heading, just due eastbound, just nice
gradual turn, and use the turn coordinator and your attitude
indicator to make just an easy turn to the left, about 15 degrees
of bank.
McFarland also used landmarks to help assist the pilot in finding
the airport. At 700 feet mean sea level, the pilot finally saw the
ground. As the pilot descended lower, McFarland lost radar
contact with the aircraft, but continued to provide the position
of TME relative to the last known position of the aircraft until he
heard the pilot had safely landed his aircraft.
