This is quite amusing — the most notorious controller at New York Kennedy Airport (JFK) admonished Delta pilots when they appeared distracted, posing a sarcastic inquiry. A remark was then made for him to refrain from being impolite, which understandably did not go over well. I must admit, this is one instance where I somewhat agree with the controller, despite his unnecessary sassiness.
ATC gets sarcastic with Delta pilot, gets called out
The YouTube channel “You can see ATC” features the audio and a visualization of a humorous exchange that occurred at JFK Airport around 10AM on August 22, 2026. The controller involved in this exchange should be recognizable, as he’s “that guy.”
To summarize, this incident relates to Delta flight DL773, which was set to fly from New York to Los Angeles (LAX), operating one of those stunning Boeing 767-300ERs. The aircraft was taxiing out to runway 4L when this interaction took place:
JFK ATC: “Delta 773 heavy, when able, cross 31L at KE, hold short of K, follow JetBlue.”
JFK ATC: “Delta 773 heavy, that was directed at you.”
Delta pilot: “Okay, proceed.”
JFK ATC: “Ma’am, this is the second occasion I’ve had to repeat myself. Is everything alright?”
Delta pilot: “Uh, yes, everything is excellent. We were just conversing here. Yes, please continue.”
JFK ATC: “You seem occupied in there. Should I summon a ‘follow me’ vehicle for you?”
Unknown voice: “Stop being impolite.”
JFK ATC: “This isn’t being impolite. It’s a matter of safety. My need to reiterate instructions to an aircraft that has stopped is not being rude. Delta 773 heavy, do you require a ‘follow me’ vehicle?”
Delta pilot: “Uh, no.”
JFK ATC: “Delta 773 heavy, once more, cross 31L at KE, join K4, and hold short of K.”
Delta pilot: “31L at KE, K4, hold short of K, Delta 773.”
The controller was obnoxious, but right to be annoyed
This specific JFK air traffic controller is infamous for his demeanor and will seize any chance to demonstrate his “alpha” persona. Generally, that’s exceedingly off-putting, as it tends to unsettle pilots (particularly those from abroad, where he doesn’t seem to acknowledge that English may not be their primary language).
Clearly, this individual was being sarcastic by inquiring if the Delta aircraft required a “follow me” vehicle to remain in the taxi queue.
Nonetheless, I must say, the Delta pilot was also displaying unprofessional behavior, in my view. When you’re piloting (especially while waiting for takeoff at JFK), it’s essential to consistently monitor the radios and be attentive to your callsign.
It appears they missed several radio communications, and rather than her saying “my apologies for that,” she acted as though the air traffic controller was causing her inconvenience by providing guidance. “We were just conversing here” should not be the reaction when an air traffic controller highlights that you are missing multiple transmissions, regardless of how “exclusive” the discussion might have been!
To offer them some grace, perhaps they were addressing an urgent matter, in which case they could have clarified that to the controller or simply requested his assistance.
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