Pilot Asks Out ATC Controller Over Frequency...And Gets Rejected
Aviation radio gets a dose of humor as a pilot shoots his shot mid-transmission
Matt C
February 24, 2025
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It’s not every day that an air traffic control (ATC) frequency turns into the backdrop for a surprise flirting attempt, but that’s exactly what happened in a recent viral moment caught on aviation radio.
A Breeze Airways pilot decided to take a break from standard phraseology and add a little charm to his transmission—only to be met with a swift but friendly rejection.
The exchange, featured in the VASAviation video "Pilot ASKING THE CONTROLLER OUT on Frequency = Gets Rejected," has aviation fans buzzing over the lighthearted moment.
The Mid-Air Pickup Line
The conversation started like any routine check-in, but quickly took an unexpected turn:
Pilot: "New York, Moxy 516."
Controller: "Yeah?"
Pilot: "Hey there! I pulled you up on my number two radio and I was like... hey, is it inappropriate to ask for a controller's number?"
Controller: "Wait, say it one more time?"
Pilot: "Moxy 516, you wanna send me a text sometime?"
Controller: "Sir, I'm married."
Pilot: "No, sincere, I'm not interested like that, but figured you had a personality, it's kind of rare."
Controller: "Oh! Well, thank you, ha ha."
Cue the background reactions—other pilots on frequency immediately chimed in with “cheerio,” “wowwwww,” and “what just happened tonight?” The controller, laughing, responded with, "I don't know, I think I was a little too nice to that guy."
Aviation Humor at 30,000 Feet
Aviation radio isn’t usually the place for dating attempts, but pilots and controllers do share moments of humor now and then—especially during less busy periods. While radio chatter is mostly reserved for serious business, every now and then, a little personality sneaks through, whether it’s a birthday shoutout, a joke, or, in this case, an impromptu (and very public) date request.
The controller’s response was professional but lighthearted, and the whole interaction became an instant classic. While the pilot may not have gotten a date, he definitely got a memorable moment and a few laughs from his fellow aviators.
The Aviation Community Reacts
The video has prompted mixed reactions from pilots, aviation enthusiasts, and industry professionals:
“Props to the controller for keeping it professional. The frequency is no place for personal matters.”
“This was hilarious, but imagine if this had happened during a busy period. Not the time or place.”
“At least he kept it respectful and didn’t push after she said no. Just a funny moment in aviation.”
Meanwhile, some have pointed out the gender dynamics at play, arguing that while the interaction may have been lighthearted, it’s important to ensure a professional and respectful working environment for everyone in aviation.
Final Thoughts: Harmless Fun or Over the Line?
Ultimately, this incident, while humorous, serves as a reminder of the fine line between friendly interactions and maintaining professional decorum on the airwaves. While some see this as a harmless exchange that provided a moment of levity, others believe it underscores the importance of keeping communications strictly business, particularly on busy frequencies.
What do you think? Should pilots and controllers be allowed moments of levity, or should all communication remain strictly professional at all times?
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