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Space shuttle in NY (part#13)
The Space Shuttle Enterprise arrives in New York atop a NASA 747 for its final retirement.
Summary
This recording captures the historic arrival of the Space Shuttle Enterprise at JFK International Airport on April 27, 2012. Mounted atop NASA’s modified Boeing 747 Shuttle Carrier Aircraft (SCA), the shuttle performs low flyovers of New York landmarks and area airports while controllers coordinate a temporary halt to commercial traffic. The transcript features enthusiastic exchanges between pilots and controllers as they witness the end of an era in American spaceflight.
Analysis
The recording documents the final leg of the Space Shuttle Enterprise's journey to the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum. The Shuttle Carrier Aircraft (SCA), using the callsign "Bobic 15 Heavy," is seen navigating the complex New York terminal airspace. The flight wasn't just a delivery but a public spectacle, with the aircraft performing low-altitude "low approaches" and flyovers of Newark, LaGuardia, and finally JFK. This required significant coordination between New York Approach and various airport towers to ensure the massive 747/Orbiter combo could safely maneuver at 1,000 to 2,000 feet.
A notable aspect of this transcript is the departure from standard, clipped ATC phraseology. Controllers are heard acting as "tour guides" for other pilots, telling them where to look and even suggesting taxiway positions for the best view. The JFK controller explicitly tells commercial flights (Delta, JetBlue, American) that departures are stopped for the "subject aircraft," a rare occurrence for anything other than an emergency or a Presidential movement. The professional yet reverent tone is capped off by the controller telling the NASA pilot, "It's been an honor."
The transcript also highlights the logistical complexity of such an event. Multiple chase ships and security aircraft, including NASA 5 (a T-38 Talon) and New York Police Department (PD) helicopters, are integrated into the flow. These aircraft were responsible for documenting the flight and ensuring the corridor remained clear. The "low approach" mentioned frequently is an aviation maneuver where the aircraft flies the landing pattern and descends over the runway without actually touching down, allowing spectators and cameras to get a close-up view before the final landing.
Technically, the recording showcases the "Heavy" designation of the Bobic 15 (due to the 747's weight class) and the use of the ILS (Instrument Landing System) for Runway 4 Right at Newark and 31 Left at JFK. Despite the clear VFR (Visual Flight Rules) conditions, the pilots used these electronic glideslopes to ensure precise positioning for the cameras. The event serves as a rare bridge between the worlds of commercial aviation and space exploration, captured through the routine yet extraordinary lens of air traffic control.
Original ATC Communication
Plain English Translation
PILOT (BOBIC 15 HEAVY)
Bobic 15 Heavy is with you at 2,000 feet, overflying Newark north.
PILOT (BOBIC 15 HEAVY)
This is flight Bobic 15, a heavy aircraft. We’re checking in with you at 2,000 feet, currently flying over the north side of Newark.
ATC
Bobic 15 Heavy, New York Approach. Good morning, sir. Newark altimeter 29.88.
ATC
Bobic 15 Heavy, this is New York Approach. Good morning, sir. The Newark barometric pressure setting for your altimeter is 29.88.
PILOT (BOBIC 15 HEAVY)
29.88.
PILOT (BOBIC 15 HEAVY)
29.88, copy that.
ATC
Bobic 15 Heavy, proceed at your discretion. Advise your turn towards the field. Again, Newark altimeter 29.88, and Newark surface winds right now are 310 at 16.
ATC
Bobic 15 Heavy, fly however you need to for now. Just let me know when you start your turn toward the airport. Again, the pressure is 29.88, and the winds on the ground at Newark are currently 16 knots from the northwest.
PILOT (BOBIC 15 HEAVY)
Okay, copy that 29.88. If we could get a vector for the ILS 4 Right, we’d appreciate it.
PILOT (BOBIC 15 HEAVY)
Okay, we’ve got that 29.88 setting. If you could give us a directional heading to line up for the instrument landing system on runway 4 Right, we’d appreciate it.
ATC
Understand, Bobic 15 Heavy. Bobic 15 Heavy, continue present heading and point back in about five miles.
ATC
I understand, Bobic 15 Heavy. Keep flying your current direction for now and turn back toward the field in about five miles.
PILOT (BOBIC 15 HEAVY)
Okay. If we could go ahead and take a vector now? We’ve finally got a chase ship.
PILOT (BOBIC 15 HEAVY)
Okay. Actually, could we get that directional heading now? Our escort plane has finally caught up with us.
ATC
Bobic 15 Heavy, Roger. Turn right, please, to heading 310.
ATC
Bobic 15 Heavy, I hear you. Please turn right to a northwest heading of 310.
PILOT (BOBIC 15 HEAVY)
310 on the heading for Bobic 15 Heavy.
PILOT (BOBIC 15 HEAVY)
Turning to 310 now for Bobic 15 Heavy.
ATC
Bobic 15 Heavy, one-four from Dewey. Turn right heading 010, maintain 2,000 until established on the localizer. Cleared low approach runway 4 Right.
ATC
Bobic 15 Heavy, you are fourteen miles from the Dewey checkpoint. Turn right to heading 010 and stay at 2,000 feet until you’re locked onto the runway's guidance beam. You are cleared to fly low over runway 4 Right.
PILOT (BOBIC 15 HEAVY)
010, 2,000, cleared the low approach for Bobic 15 Heavy. Turn down.
PILOT (BOBIC 15 HEAVY)
Heading 010, staying at 2,000, and Bobic 15 Heavy is cleared for the low pass. Starting our turn down now.
ATC
Bobic 15 Heavy, say again?
ATC
Bobic 15 Heavy, could you repeat that last part?
PILOT (BOBIC 15 HEAVY)
Yeah, sorry, I'm juggling two radios. We’re starting our descent to 1,000 for the flyover.
PILOT (BOBIC 15 HEAVY)
Yeah, sorry, I’m trying to manage two different radios at once. We are starting our descent down to 1,000 feet for the flyover.
ATC
Bobic 15 Heavy, understand. Once again, you’re cleared low approach runway 4 Right. Wind 300 at 17.
ATC
Bobic 15 Heavy, I understand. Once again, you are authorized for the low pass over runway 4 Right. Winds are 17 knots from the northwest.
PILOT (BOBIC 15 HEAVY)
Copy 300 at 17, and cleared the low approach for Bobic 15 Heavy.
PILOT (BOBIC 15 HEAVY)
Got the winds at 17 knots, and Bobic 15 Heavy is cleared for the low flyover.
ATC
Okay, attention all aircraft. We have the Enterprise just north of the GW Bridge at 1,500 feet. It will be coming down the river. You want to tell your folks to look out to the east. Eventually, it will enter the downwind for a low approach. I will keep you all posted.
For everybody listening, the Enterprise is just crossing over the Lincoln Tunnel, approximately seven miles north and east of the airport, southbound along the Hudson River.
I need everybody else to kind of creep off. I know we're all looking out the window, but if you would attempt to continue moving towards the runway, that would be great. And if you look out to the east, it's just passing over the Statue of Liberty right now.
Okay, doing a little adjustment. I'll be launching one or two more airplanes. The Enterprise is rolling out here very shortly on about a 10-mile final. I'll be stopping departures, so you can do whatever you want to do as long as you remain clear of my runways as far as getting in the optimum viewing position. As a reminder, we're going to be doing a low approach with the Enterprise at 1,000 feet AGL.
ATC
Okay, attention all aircraft. We have the Space Shuttle Enterprise just north of the George Washington Bridge at 1,500 feet. It’s going to be traveling down the river. You might want to tell your passengers to look out the east side of the plane. Eventually, it will join the traffic pattern for a low-altitude pass over the runway. I’ll keep you all updated.
For everybody listening, the Enterprise is just crossing over the Lincoln Tunnel, about seven miles northeast of the airport, heading south along the Hudson River.
I need everyone else to keep slowly taxiing. I know we’re all staring out the window, but if you could try to keep moving toward the runway, that would be great. And if you look out to the east, it’s passing right over the Statue of Liberty right now.
Okay, I’m making a small adjustment. I’ll be letting one or two more planes take off. The Enterprise is lining up with the runway very shortly on about a ten-mile straight-in approach. I’ll be stopping all takeoffs, so you can move your planes however you want to get the best viewing position, as long as you stay off my active runways. As a reminder, we’re going to do a low-altitude pass with the Enterprise at 1,000 feet above the ground.
PILOT
Is he landing with you or Kennedy?
PILOT
Is the shuttle landing here with you or over at Kennedy Airport?
ATC
Say again?
ATC
Could you say that again?
PILOT
Is the shuttle landing with you guys?
PILOT
Is the space shuttle actually landing here with you guys?
ATC
Kennedy, no. He's doing a low approach here; he's doing the circuit. Here he comes. If you want a good shot, I'd probably get close to 22. Once we complete the low approach, we're in the—and once we’re done with the low approach, folks, we're going to start taking you to 22 during the mid-runway change, and I'll get you going here momentarily.
ATC
No, not at Kennedy. He’s just doing a low-altitude pass here; he’s flying the circuit. Here he comes! If you want a good photo, I’d probably get your plane close to Runway 22. Once the low pass is finished, everyone, we’re going to start moving you toward Runway 22 as we switch which runways we're using for the day, and I’ll get you moving here in just a second.
PILOT (BOBIC 15 HEAVY)
Bobic 15 Heavy is leaving one for 2,000.
PILOT (BOBIC 15 HEAVY)
This is the heavy Bobic 15 flight, we're climbing through 1,000 feet on our way up to 2,000.
ATC
Bobic 15 Heavy, Roger. Fly heading 040. New York altimeter 29.89. Maintain 2,000.
ATC
Bobic 15 Heavy, understood. Fly a compass heading of 040 degrees. The New York altimeter setting for your altitude gauge is 29.89. Stay at 2,000 feet.
PILOT (BOBIC 15 HEAVY)
040 on the heading, 2,000 for Bobic 15 Heavy.
PILOT (BOBIC 15 HEAVY)
Heading 040 and holding 2,000 feet for Bobic 15 Heavy.
ATC
Bobic 15 Heavy, resume own navigation.
ATC
Bobic 15 Heavy, you can go back to following your own planned route now.
PILOT (BOBIC 15 HEAVY)
Copy, resume own nav for 15 Heavy.
PILOT (BOBIC 15 HEAVY)
Got it, back to our own navigation for Bobic 15 Heavy.
ATC
Bobic 15 Heavy, contact New York Approach on 125.7. Have a good day, sir.
ATC
Bobic 15 Heavy, contact the New York arrival controllers on frequency 125.7. Have a good day, sir.
PILOT (BOBIC 15 HEAVY)
25.7 for Bobic 15 Heavy. We'll see you.
PILOT (BOBIC 15 HEAVY)
Switching to 125.7 for Bobic 15 Heavy. See ya.
ATC
Nice to see.
ATC
That was a beautiful sight.
PILOT
I bet it is. You've got the best view right now.
PILOT
I bet it was. You’ve got the best view in the world right now.
ATC
NASA 5, New York.
ATC
NASA Flight 5, this is New York.
PILOT (NASA 5)
NASA 5, go ahead.
PILOT (NASA 5)
NASA 5 here, I’m listening, go ahead.
ATC
NASA 5, you should see a smokestack with a big beige building right in your vicinity there. Do you see it?
ATC
NASA 5, you should be able to see a smokestack and a large beige building right near you. Do you have eyes on it?
PILOT (NASA 5)
Affirmative. That's what you are.
PILOT (NASA 5)
Yes, I see it. I’m looking right at it.
ATC
Right to the east of that is a white building with a radio antenna and a big parking lot.
ATC
Just to the east of that is a white building with a radio tower and a large parking lot.
PILOT (NASA 5)
Affirmative.
PILOT (NASA 5)
I see it, yes.
ATC
If you position yourself right over that building, you're going to see the shuttle come right overhead.
ATC
If you hover right over that building, the space shuttle is going to fly directly over the top of you.
PILOT (NASA 5)
Okay, over the antenna. New York Approach, NASA 5 on station.
PILOT (NASA 5)
Understood, staying over the antenna. New York controllers, NASA 5 is in position.
ATC
Thank you.
ATC
Thank you.
PILOT (NASA 5)
What altitude would you like me at, sir?
PILOT (NASA 5)
How high up would you like me to stay, sir?
ATC
Sir, what you're doing now is fine. You’re not glued to that spot; you can do what you need to do, sir.
ATC
Sir, your current height is perfect. You aren't stuck in that one exact spot; feel free to move as you need to, sir.
PILOT (NASA 5)
Okay, thank you.
PILOT (NASA 5)
Okay, thank you.
PILOT (PD 15)
Kennedy, PD 15. We're just going to move a little further north towards the Governor's Island area here.
PILOT (PD 15)
Kennedy Tower, this is Police Helicopter 15. We’re going to shift a bit further north toward the Governor’s Island area.
ATC
PD 15, that's fine. Thank you.
ATC
Police 15, that’s fine. Thank you.
PILOT
Ground, do you have a shuttle ETA?
PILOT
Ground control, do you have an estimated arrival time for the shuttle?
ATC
We don't even have him on radar yet. He was doing the Hudson. It was supposed to be 5-10 minutes, but we don't see him right now.
ATC
We don’t even have him on our radar screens yet. He was flying over the Hudson River. He was supposed to be here in five to ten minutes, but we don’t see him yet.
PILOT
Thank you.
PILOT
Thanks a lot.
ATC
PD 15, subject aircraft is at the Alpine Tower starting the southbound leg.
ATC
Police 15, the plane we're watching is over Alpine Tower now, heading south.
PILOT (PD 15)
Station, Roger. Is that shuttle supposed to be doing a low pass?
PILOT (PD 15)
Got it. Hey, is that space shuttle supposed to be flying this low?
ATC
Yeah, eventually when he does come here, he's going to land, but he's still flying around the Hudson River. So it looks like it's going to be at least another 10 to 15 minutes.
ATC
Yeah, he'll eventually come in for a landing, but right now he's still circling the Hudson River. It'll be at least another 10 or 15 minutes before he's here.
PILOT (PD 15)
Oh, okay. Thanks.
PILOT (PD 15)
Oh, okay. Thanks for the update.
PILOT (AMERICAN 179)
Tower, how far out is the shuttle?
PILOT (AMERICAN 179)
Tower, American 179 here, how far away is that shuttle?
ATC
Say that last one?
ATC
Could you repeat that?
PILOT (AMERICAN 179)
How far out is the shuttle from American 179?
PILOT (AMERICAN 179)
Just wondering how much distance is between us and the shuttle?
ATC
Not 100 percent sure yet.
ATC
I’m not entirely sure just yet.
PILOT (AMERICAN 179)
What’d you say?
PILOT (AMERICAN 179)
Sorry, what was that?
ATC
Not 100 percent sure yet on the exact ETA.
ATC
I don't have an exact arrival time for him yet.
PILOT (AMERICAN 179)
All right.
PILOT (AMERICAN 179)
All right, thanks.
ATC
American 19 Heavy, Kennedy Tower. Line up and wait runway 31 Left. Watch for a left departure Heavy jet.
ATC
American 19, the large jet, this is Kennedy Tower. Taxi onto runway 31 Left and wait there. Keep an eye out for another large jet taking off ahead of you to the left.
PILOT (AMERICAN 19 HEAVY)
Line up and wait 31 Left, American 19 Heavy. Do you have an ETA on that shuttle?
PILOT (AMERICAN 19 HEAVY)
Moving onto 31 Left to wait, American 19. Any idea when that shuttle is arriving?
ATC
He’ll be on the bay for 31 Left low level.
ATC
He’ll be flying low right over the bay toward your runway.
PILOT (AMERICAN 19 HEAVY)
Roger, and you're going to be coming in between the 31s, is that correct?
PILOT (AMERICAN 19 HEAVY)
Understood, and just to confirm, you’re planning to fly in the space between the two parallel runways labeled 31?
ATC
Affirmative.
ATC
That’s correct.
PILOT (AMERICAN 19 HEAVY)
Roger.
PILOT (AMERICAN 19 HEAVY)
Got it.
PILOT (PD 16)
Kennedy, PD 16.
PILOT (PD 16)
Kennedy Tower, this is Police Helicopter 16.
ATC
PD 16, your radar contact is just northeast of the Verrazzano. Are you coming in between the 31s?
ATC
Police 16, I see you on my radar just northeast of the Verrazzano Bridge. Are you coming in through the gap between the two 31 runways?
PILOT (PD 16)
Affirmative, sir.
PILOT (PD 16)
Yes, sir, that’s the plan.
ATC
All right, very good. You can proceed towards the tower. Just hold short—actually, why don’t you go to Canarsie and then the intersection of 4 Left and 31 Left, 1,000 or below. Hold short there and we'll get you going as soon as we can.
ATC
Alright, sounds good. You can head toward the control tower. Actually, wait—go over toward Canarsie first and then to the spot where runways 4 Left and 31 Left cross. Stay at or below a thousand feet. Stop just before you get there, and we'll get you moving again as soon as we can.
PILOT (PD 16)
PD 16, Roger. Canarsie, then direct 4 and 31.
PILOT (PD 16)
Police 16, copy that. To Canarsie, then straight to the intersection of runways 4 and 31.
ATC
PD 14, if you have your company south of you in sight, you want to follow him. That’ll work too.
ATC
Police 14, if you can see your partner’s helicopter just south of you, you can just follow him. That’ll work fine for us.
PILOT (PD 14)
PD 14 has company in sight. We’ll follow him.
PILOT (PD 14)
Police 14 has our other aircraft in sight. We’ll follow him in.
ATC
Towards the control tower, cross runway 31 Left, stay between the 31s.
ATC
Head toward the control tower, cross over runway 31 Left, and stay in the area between the two 31 runways.
PILOT (PD 16)
Cross runway 31 Left and we’ll remain between the 31s.
PILOT (PD 16)
Crossing runway 31 Left now, and we’ll stay in the space between the two 31 runways.
ATC
PD 14, direct to the control tower. Cross runway 31 Left, stay between the 31s.
ATC
Police 14, fly straight to the control tower. Cross over runway 31 Left and stay between the two parallel 31 runways.
PILOT (PD 14)
Wilco, PD 14. We’ll follow him into position.
PILOT (PD 14)
We’ll do it, Police 14. We’ll follow the other guy into position.
PILOT (DELTA 1529)
And Delta 1529, guess what?
PILOT (DELTA 1529)
And Kennedy Tower, this is Delta 1529... guess what?
ATC
Delta 1529, go ahead.
ATC
Delta 1529, I’m listening, go ahead.
PILOT (DELTA 1529)
We’re down here looking for the shuttle.
PILOT (DELTA 1529)
We’re down here keeping an eye out for the space shuttle.
ATC
Yeah, we have the 747 that's eventually inbound carrying the shuttle on its back. It’s going to be displayed at a museum in the city, so everybody’s kind of waiting for the arrival. It’s not going to happen for probably about another 10 minutes or so though.
ATC
Yeah, we’ve got that 747 headed our way with the shuttle riding on its back. It’s going to be displayed at a museum in the city, so everyone’s waiting for it to arrive. It probably won’t happen for another 10 minutes or so, though.
PILOT (DELTA 1529)
Okay, thanks, 1529.
PILOT (DELTA 1529)
Okay, thanks for the update, 1529.
PILOT (PD 16)
Kennedy, PD 16. Okay to take up station just north of the 4 Left?
PILOT (PD 16)
Kennedy Tower, this is Police 16. Is it okay if we hold our position just north of runway 4 Left?
ATC
Yes, sir. As long as you're between the 31s, that's fine. North of 4 Left is perfect.
ATC
Yes, sir. As long as you stay between the two 31 runways, that’s fine. North of 4 Left is perfect.
PILOT (PD 16)
PD 16, Roger. Thank you, sir.
PILOT (PD 16)
Police 16, understood. Thank you, sir.
ATC
PD 14, just call clear of 31 Left, please. PD 16 is on station, sir.
ATC
Police 14, just let me know when you’ve moved away from runway 31 Left. Police 16 is in position now, sir.
PILOT (PD 16)
PD 16, thanks.
PILOT (PD 16)
Police 16, thanks.
PILOT (PD 14)
Clear 31 Left.
PILOT (PD 14)
We’re clear of runway 31 Left.
ATC
PD 14, thank you. FAA 1, go.
ATC
Police 14, thank you. FAA 1, go ahead.
PILOT (FAA 1)
He’s still back and forth at Newark, so whenever he's done there, I guess he'll be coming here. So maybe another 10 minutes.
PILOT (FAA 1)
He’s still flying back and forth over Newark airport, so once he’s finished there, I guess he’ll head this way. Maybe another 10 minutes.
ATC
Kennedy, PD 14 is on station.
ATC
Kennedy Tower, Police 14 is in position.
PILOT (PD 14)
PD 14, thank you.
PILOT (PD 14)
Police 14, thank you.
PILOT (PD 15)
Kennedy, PD 15.
PILOT (PD 15)
Kennedy Tower, this is Police 15.
ATC
PD 15, yes sir.
ATC
PD 15, go ahead, sir.
PILOT (PD 15)
Sir, anytime on station. In the harbor, we'd like to take the Rockaways inbound and take a position, maybe somewhere in Jamaica Bay, out of your way for the arrival.
PILOT (PD 15)
Sir, we’re ready whenever you need us. Since we’re in the harbor, we’d like to head toward the Rockaways and get into position, maybe somewhere over Jamaica Bay, so we’re out of your way for the incoming flight.
ATC
PD 15, my understanding is I need you between the 31s. If you’d like to go over to the reservoir, come right in between the 31s with your two companies, that's fine.
ATC
PD 15, my understanding is that I need you positioned between the two parallel runways, the 31s. If you’d rather go over to the reservoir, just stay between those two runways with your other two police aircraft, and that’ll work fine.
PILOT (PD 15)
Okay, between the 31s with company. That'll be fine.
PILOT (PD 15)
Okay, we’ll stay between the two 31 runways with our other units. That works for us.
PILOT (NASA 5)
New York Approach, NASA 5.
PILOT (NASA 5)
New York controllers, this is NASA 5.
ATC
NASA 5, go ahead.
ATC
NASA 5, go ahead with your message.
PILOT (NASA 5)
Do you have an ETA by chance?
PILOT (NASA 5)
Do you happen to have an estimated arrival time for him?
ATC
He's right over Teterboro right now making his right turn. He should be here shortly.
ATC
He’s right over Teterboro airport right now, starting his right-hand turn. He should be here any minute.
PILOT (NASA 5)
Thank you, sir.
PILOT (NASA 5)
Thanks, sir.
PILOT (BOBIC 15 HEAVY)
Bobic 15 Heavy is descending to 1,000 for the flyover at LaGuardia.
PILOT (BOBIC 15 HEAVY)
Our large aircraft, Bobic 15, is dropping down to 1,000 feet for the low-altitude flyover at LaGuardia.
ATC
Bobic 15, New York Approach. Roger. Do you need vectors?
ATC
Bobic 15, this is New York controllers. I understand. Do you need me to give you specific steering directions?
PILOT (BOBIC 15 HEAVY)
No, we’ve got the airport.
PILOT (BOBIC 15 HEAVY)
No, we’ve got the airport in sight.
ATC
Very well. Bobic 15, at 2,000 fly heading 120.
ATC
All right then. Bobic 15, while at 2,000 feet, fly a compass heading of 120 degrees.
PILOT (BOBIC 15 HEAVY)
120 on the heading for Bobic 15 Heavy.
PILOT (BOBIC 15 HEAVY)
Turning to a heading of 120 degrees, Bobic 15 Heavy.
ATC
NASA PD 5, the big guy's at 2 o'clock, eight miles, southeastbound at 2,000. Suggest you remain at or below 1,000 feet.
ATC
NASA and the police unit, that large aircraft is just to your right at the 2 o'clock position, eight miles away, heading southeast at 2,000 feet. I suggest you stay at or below 1,000 feet to keep clear of him.
PILOT (NASA 5)
At or below 1,000 feet, sir.
PILOT (NASA 5)
We're staying at or below 1,000 feet, sir.
ATC
Thank you. Bobic 15, another 10 degrees to the left. Heading 110.
ATC
Thanks. Bobic 15, turn another 10 degrees to your left. Aim for a compass heading of 110.
PILOT (BOBIC 15 HEAVY)
10 left for Bobic 15.
PILOT (BOBIC 15 HEAVY)
Turning 10 degrees left, Bobic 15.
ATC
Delta 1529, you are going to be held for quite a bit. So just hold sort of Zulu for now.
ATC
Delta 1529, you're going to be stuck for a while. For now, just wait near taxiway Zulu.
PILOT (DELTA 1529)
Hold at Zulu, Delta 1529. Any idea how long?
PILOT (DELTA 1529)
We'll wait at Zulu, Delta 1529. Any idea how long the wait will be?
ATC
Probably 10 to 15 minutes.
ATC
It'll probably be about 10 to 15 minutes.
PILOT (DELTA 1529)
Okay, thanks, Delta 1529.
PILOT (DELTA 1529)
Okay, thanks, Delta 1529.
ATC
JetBlue 641, when you get by Juliet, you’re going to follow a CRJ from the right. Just be advised, there’s a temporary stop on departures. It’s probably going to last as much as 10 minutes. We’ve got the 747 with the shuttle on its back inbound. So expect about a 10-minute delay. Just eventually, when things do move, again, you follow the CRJ and monitor Tower on 119.1.
ATC
JetBlue 641, once you pass taxiway Juliet, tuck in behind that regional jet coming from your right. Just so you know, we've paused all takeoffs for about 10 minutes. We have the 747 carrying the Space Shuttle on its back coming in to land. Expect a 10-minute delay. Once we get moving again, stay behind that regional jet and listen for the tower controllers on frequency 119.1.
PILOT (JETBLUE 641)
Okay, behind the CRJ, 119.1. And what runway? Is it going to do a flyby first?
PILOT (JETBLUE 641)
Okay, we'll follow the regional jet and switch to 119.1. Which runway is it using? Is it going to do a low pass over the airport first?
ATC
No, he's going to land, but it'll be 31 Left so you should have a good view.
ATC
No, he’s coming straight in to land on runway 31 Left, so you should have a great front-row seat.
PILOT (JETBLUE 641)
All right, thanks.
PILOT (JETBLUE 641)
All right, thanks for the heads up.
PILOT (DELTA 1529)
Tower, Delta 1529. Understand a 10-15 minute delay. Do you have any idea what runway the shuttle will be flying by?
PILOT (DELTA 1529)
Tower, this is Delta 1529. We copied the 10 to 15 minute delay. Do you know which runway the shuttle will be passing over?
ATC
You’ll probably have a good view there.
ATC
You should have a pretty good view from where you’re sitting.
PILOT (DELTA 1529)
I'm sorry, through 31 Left?
PILOT (DELTA 1529)
Sorry, did you say it's coming in on runway 31 Left?
ATC
Yeah, you’ll have a good view right there.
ATC
Yeah, you’ll be able to see it perfectly from right where you are.
PILOT (DELTA 1529)
Okay, excellent. Thanks.
PILOT (DELTA 1529)
Got it, that’s great. Thank you.
ATC
Delta 1541.
ATC
Delta 1541, go ahead.
PILOT (DELTA 1541)
Is there anyway we can taxi to the north northwest so we can find ourselves a better angle?
PILOT (DELTA 1541)
Is there any way we can drive the plane over toward the north-northwest? We’re trying to find a better angle to see what's happening.
ATC
Yeah, it's just that Alpha taxiway there is closed. He's still probably about maybe 20 to 25 flying miles out. So it should work out. It’s just that the vehicles and equipment you see off your left side there, I'd prefer that they don't get blasted. Okay, and just make sure that they keep moving you. Your tail towards the southeast and push you back enough so you'll eventually be able to turn Lima onto Bravo.
ATC
Sure, it’s just that the Alpha taxiway over there is closed. The plane you're watching is still about 20 to 25 miles out, so this should work. I just don't want those workers and trucks to your left to get hit by your engine blast. Just make sure the ground crew keeps moving you with your tail toward the southeast, pushing you back far enough so you can eventually turn off this Lima path onto Bravo.
PILOT (DELTA 1541)
Will do, Tower.
PILOT (DELTA 1541)
We’ll make sure that happens, Tower.
ATC
Then JetBlue 1731, hold short of taxiway Hotel and remain this frequency. Just turn the transponder off, please.
NASA PD 5, that's a T-38 that's right off your right side there. The other ones are going to be coming here shortly.
ATC
JetBlue 1731, stop just before the Hotel intersection and stay on this radio channel. Go ahead and turn off your radar signaling device, please. NASA PD 5, there’s a T-38 jet right off your right side. The other planes will be arriving here shortly.
PILOT (NASA 5)
Okay, he's on our left side. We're facing northbound.
PILOT (NASA 5)
Copy that, but he's actually on our left. We're currently facing north.
ATC
All right, NASA PD 5. They might both be there. Do you see two aircraft out there at about 9 o'clock and three miles?
ATC
Got it, NASA 5. They might both be out there. Do you see two aircraft out your left window about three miles away?
PILOT (NASA 5)
I have that traffic in sight, sir. It's him.
PILOT (NASA 5)
I see those planes now, sir. That's definitely him.
ATC
Okay, very good. Thank you. Last departure. Once he gets—he's going straight out to miss you. And once we're—he's the last one for now until subject aircraft lands.
JetBlue 66, just follow the company. Just remain this frequency for now.
ATC
Okay, great, thanks. That's the last plane taking off; he’s heading straight out to stay clear of you. He's the final departure for now until the plane we’re waiting for lands. JetBlue 66, just follow that other JetBlue plane ahead of you and stay on this radio channel for now.
PILOT (JETBLUE 66)
Okay, and is it possible to turn right on Yankee? We can watch that plane land.
PILOT (JETBLUE 66)
Got it. Is it possible for us to turn right onto the Yankee taxiway? We’d like to watch that plane come in and land.
ATC
Yeah, you know what, we could probably do that. JetBlue 641, you still up? Why don’t you do that, JetBlue 641 and JetBlue 1731. Make the right turn Hotel and then a left turn onto Yankee. Then hold short of Juliet on Yankee.
ATC
Yeah, you know what, we can probably do that. JetBlue 641, are you still listening? Why don’t you and JetBlue 1731 both do that. Turn right onto Hotel, then take a left onto Yankee, and stop just before you reach the Juliet intersection.
PILOT (JETBLUE 1731)
All right, 1731. You want us to start a right turn on Hotel and left turn on what, sir?
PILOT (JETBLUE 1731)
Okay, this is 1731. You want us to start a right turn on Hotel and then a left turn onto where, sir?
ATC
And then left turn onto Yankee and hold short of Juliet on taxiway Yankee.
ATC
Take a left onto the Yankee taxiway and then stop just before you get to the Juliet crossing.
PILOT (JETBLUE 1731)
All right, hold short of Juliet on Yankee for JetBlue 1731.
PILOT (JETBLUE 1731)
Understood, we’ll stop short of Juliet on Yankee. JetBlue 1731.
ATC
PD 15, maintain visual separation with the A320. Cross runway 31 Left and just stay between the 31s at all times, please.
Bobic 15, turn right heading 170. Vectors for runway 31 Left. Bobic 15, turn right heading 180. Bobic 15, New York Approach, if you hear me, ident.
ATC
Police 15, keep your eyes on that Airbus A320 and stay a safe distance away. Cross over runway 31 Left and just make sure you stay in the area between the two parallel 31 runways at all times, please.
Bobic 15, turn right to a compass heading of 170. I’m giving you steering directions for runway 31 Left. Bobic 15, turn further right to heading 180. Bobic 15, this is New York controllers—if you can hear me, push your signal button so I can identify you on my radar.
PILOT (BOBIC 15 HEAVY)
I'm sorry, working two radios. We’re coming right 180 for Bobic 15 Heavy.
PILOT (BOBIC 15 HEAVY)
I’m very sorry, I was busy juggling two different radios. We are turning right now to heading 180, Bobic 15 Heavy.
ATC
Yes, sir. That's correct. Thank you. PD 15, I show you clear of 31 Left. Thank you.
ATC
Yes, sir. That’s exactly what I need. Thank you. Police 15, my screen shows you are safely across and clear of runway 31 Left. Thanks.
PILOT (PD 15)
PD 15, clear 31 Left.
PILOT (PD 15)
Police 15, we are clear of runway 31 Left.
ATC
Bobic 15, turn right heading 210.
ATC
Bobic 15, turn right to a heading of 210.
PILOT (BOBIC 15 HEAVY)
Coming right 210 on the heading for Bobic 15 Heavy.
PILOT (BOBIC 15 HEAVY)
Turning right to 210 on the compass for Bobic 15 Heavy.
PILOT (NASA 5)
New York Approach, NASA 5.
PILOT (NASA 5)
New York controllers, this is NASA 5.
ATC
NASA 5, go ahead.
ATC
NASA 5, go ahead with your request.
PILOT (NASA 5)
Could I go a little further south? Would that be a problem?
PILOT (NASA 5)
Would it be okay if I flew a little further south? Would that cause any problems for your traffic?
ATC
Not at all, sir. You can proceed south down if you’d like.
ATC
Not at all, sir. You’re welcome to head south as much as you’d like.
PILOT (NASA 5)
Thank you, sir.
PILOT (NASA 5)
Thank you, sir.
ATC
You're below the Bravo, by the way. It’s all your discretion.
ATC
By the way, you’re currently flying underneath the restricted commercial airspace zone, so you’re free to fly however you see fit.
PILOT (NASA 5)
Roger.
PILOT (NASA 5)
Understood.
ATC
PD 14, I think you're the furthest south helicopter. They're requesting that you come on the north side of runway 4 Left by your company, if you would, please.
And PD 15 and PD 16, if you would all stay on the north side of runway 4 Left, that would be appreciated.
ATC
Police 14, I believe you’re the southernmost helicopter out there. Your dispatch is requesting that you move over to the north side of runway 4 Left to join the rest of your group, if you would, please. And Police 15 and 16, if you could all stay on the north side of runway 4 Left, we’d appreciate it.
PILOT (PD 16)
PD 16, Roger, sir.
PILOT (PD 16)
Police 16, we’ll do that, sir.
ATC
FAA Flight 3792, temporary stop on departures. It’s probably going to last about 10 minutes from now, but just be watching the final for 31 Left and you'll know why.
ATC
FAA Flight 3792, we’re pausing all takeoffs for a moment. It’ll probably last about ten minutes, but just keep an eye on the final approach path for runway 31 Left and you’ll see why.
PILOT (FAA 3792)
3792, copy. Thank you.
PILOT (FAA 3792)
3792, understood. Thank you.
ATC
FAA Flight 4483, same for you. It's probably not going to be much of a delay, but just short of Juliet for now. Temporary stop on departures. You'll get to see the shuttle come in for 31 Left.
ATC
FAA Flight 4483, same for you. It shouldn't be much of a delay, but just hold short of taxiway Juliet for now. We’ve got a temporary stop on takeoffs so you can watch the shuttle come in for runway 31 Left.
PILOT (FAA 4483)
Okay, very good. Thank you.
PILOT (FAA 4483)
Okay, that's great. Thank you.
ATC
In fact, for PD 14, 15, and 16, they're all asking if you would be north of 4 Left in the control tower or east. This shuttle thing's going to do a couple of flybys or is he just going to land and that's it?
PD 15, you look good. Again, PD 16, if you would, just there you go, just a little bit further to the east would be great. Appreciate it. Thanks for your help.
ATC
Actually, for police units 14, 15, and 16, the tower is asking if you'll be north or east of runway 4 Left. Is this shuttle going to do a few low flyovers, or is he just landing and that's it? Police 15, you look good. Police 16, if you could just move a little further east, that would be perfect. Appreciate the help.
PILOT (PD 16)
PD 16, Roger, on the repo.
PILOT (PD 16)
Police 16, Roger, moving to the new position.
ATC
Bobic 15, turn right heading 260.
ATC
Bobic 15, turn right to a compass heading of 260 degrees.
PILOT (BOBIC 15 HEAVY)
260 on the heading for Bobic 15 Heavy.
PILOT (BOBIC 15 HEAVY)
Turning to 260 now, Bobic 15 Heavy.
ATC
Bobic 15, turn right heading 290.
ATC
Bobic 15, turn right further to a heading of 290.
PILOT (BOBIC 15 HEAVY)
290 on the heading for Bobic 15 Heavy.
PILOT (BOBIC 15 HEAVY)
Heading 290 for Bobic 15 Heavy.
ATC
Bobic 15, airport 2 o'clock, nine miles.
ATC
Bobic 15, the airport is at your two o'clock position, nine miles out.
PILOT (BOBIC 15 HEAVY)
In sight for Bobic 15 Heavy.
PILOT (BOBIC 15 HEAVY)
We have the airport in sight, Bobic 15 Heavy.
ATC
Bobic 15, Roger. Proceed towards the airport. They'll clear you for the low approach on the next frequency. Contact Kennedy Tower 119.1. It’s been an honor.
ATC
Bobic 15, understood. Continue toward the airport. The next controller will clear you for your low-altitude pass. Contact Kennedy Tower on frequency 119.1. It’s been an honor.
PILOT (BOBIC 15 HEAVY)
Contact 119.1 for 15 Heavy. Appreciate it. Thanks.
PILOT (BOBIC 15 HEAVY)
Switching to 119.1 for 15 Heavy. We appreciate it. Thanks.
ATC
Affirmative, 119.1.
PD 14, 16, 15, subject aircraft, 8-mile final for the 31 Left flyby.
ATC
That's correct, 119.1. Police units 14, 16, and 15, the shuttle is 8 miles out on its final approach for the flyover of runway 31 Left.
PILOT
Roger.
PILOT
Understood.
ATC
And Delta 1667 and 1541, just to give you a heads up. Temporary stop on departures. There’s a 747 with the shuttle on its back about eight miles out for 31 Left. So you should be able to get a good view.
ATC
Delta 1667 and 1541, just a heads up. We’re briefly pausing takeoffs. There’s a 747 carrying the Space Shuttle on its back about eight miles out, heading for the left runway. You should have a great view of it.
PILOT (DELTA 1667)
Okay, thanks.
PILOT (DELTA 1667)
Okay, thanks for the tip.
PILOT (BOBIC 15 HEAVY)
Kennedy Tower, good morning. Bobic 15 Heavy is with you for the low approach.
PILOT (BOBIC 15 HEAVY)
Kennedy Tower, good morning. This is the large Bobic 15 aircraft, checking in for our low-altitude pass over the runway.
TOWER
Bobic 15 Heavy, Kennedy Tower. Good morning. Your helicopter is to the right of the runway. Runway 31 Left, you’re cleared for a low approach. After the low approach, you can enter left traffic for runway 31 Left.
TOWER
Bobic 15, good morning. Your escort helicopter is off to the right. You’re all set for your low pass over the left runway. Once you finish that, circle back around to the left to line up for that same runway again.
PILOT (BOBIC 15 HEAVY)
Copy that. For the low approach, left traffic back around for a full stop.
PILOT (BOBIC 15 HEAVY)
Understood. Low pass first, then we’ll circle back to the left and come in for a final landing.
PILOT (NASA 5)
New York Approach, NASA 5.
PILOT (NASA 5)
New York controllers, this is NASA 5.
ATC
NASA 5, go ahead.
ATC
NASA 5, go ahead.
PILOT (NASA 5)
Yes, sir. We're finished. Thank you for your assistance. We're heading back to base, so we'll advise landing at the search.
PILOT (NASA 5)
Yes, sir. We’re done with our work here. Thanks for the help. We’re heading back to base now and will let you know when we’re landing.
ATC
NASA 5, thank you, sir. You have a great day. Radar service terminated. Squawk VFR, frequency change approved.
ATC
NASA 5, thank you. Have a great day. We’re done tracking you on radar now. You can switch your tracker to general flight settings and you're free to change to your own radio channel.
PILOT (NASA 5)
Good day.
PILOT (NASA 5)
Have a good one.
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