Isn’t it a bit astonishing how a single air traffic controller can create such a “reputation” for himself, and not in a positive light?
Delta pilot makes incorrect turn at JFK, receives reprimand
The YouTube channel ATC AUDIO has shared a video showcasing a rather captivating exchange involving *that* air traffic controller at New York Kennedy Airport (JFK). JFK air traffic controllers are recognized for their demeanor, and despite that, this individual stands out distinctly for his strictness.
This event took place on February 19, 2026, and concerns Delta flight DL806, an Airbus A321neo heading to Las Vegas Airport (LAS).
To this air traffic controller’s credit, he is very proficient at being precise, though he tends to deliver numerous instructions rather quickly, which can lead to occasional minor errors.
The dialogue between the air traffic controller and the Delta pilot commenced as follows:
ATC: “Delta 806, behind the second JetBlue off your left, you can taxi to 4L via right on Bravo and hold short of Juliet.”
Delta pilot: “Understood, behind the second JetBlue here, right turn Bravo, hold short of Juliet to 4L, Delta 806.”
Shortly after, the Delta aircraft mistakenly turned right onto taxiway Alpha instead of Bravo. While the pilot should not have done that, it was hardly the gravest error possible, especially since other planes were taxiing in the same direction on both Alpha and Bravo, with no additional traffic.
Now, things escalate:
ATC: “Delta 806, that’s… that’s unbelievable, hold your position!”
Delta pilot: “Okay, we’re holding the position, Delta 806.”
ATC: “Oh sh… you literally… I said it and you read it back. Behind the second JetBlue, right on Bravo, short of Juliet, you’re on Alpha.”
Delta pilot: “Delta 806, I made an error, don’t overreact on me. If you wish, I can make a U-turn and go wherever you need. I make mistakes.”
ATC: “Oh no, no, no, we’re not gonna do that! You’re not gonna play the victim here when nobody has started crashing out. Delta 806, continue Alpha, hold short of Kilo Echo.”
Delta pilot: “Alpha short of… God… short of Kilo Echo, Delta 806.”
This isn’t the conclusion of the story. The Delta aircraft proceeds to its intended location, and then the pilot clearly feels overlooked for a stretch as punishment, resulting in this exchange (EDCT stands for “expect departure clearance time”):
Delta pilot: “Delta 806, are we just parked here until we miss our EDCT because you’re upset with me?”
ATC: “Delta 806, one more remark from you that is unrelated to air traffic, you’re going to receive a phone number to the tower and my supervisor. Don’t do this on this frequency, do you comprehend me?”
Ultimately, the Delta aircraft was able to depart a few minutes later, without further incident…
This controller really can’t restrain himself, can he?
There are countless clips available of this controller reprimanding pilots. More frequently than not, the viral ones involve foreign pilots, where there are communication barriers, and this individual is relentless.
The core problem appears to be that this individual manages a small area every day of his life, so he knows it intimately. This is his entire realm, and he presumes everyone else should grasp it as well as he does. Meanwhile, this is just one of many airports that pilots operate at.
Pilots will occasionally make mistakes, but this individual consistently overreacts. Is “that’s crazy” truly necessary commentary when a pilot makes a minor error? And then naturally, he justifies himself by stating he’s not “crashing out.” What a way to hold yourself to a high standard!
Admittedly, the Delta pilot didn’t respond perfectly either. He became defensive immediately (likely triggered by the controller initiating his statement with “that’s crazy”). Moreover, he made a cheeky remark later while awaiting further directions. I do find it amusing how this controller assumes such a parental role, particularly in how he asks “do you understand me?” Oy.
Bottom line
JFK’s most notorious air traffic controller engaged in a heated dispute with a Delta pilot. The Delta pilot made an incorrect turn, prompting the controller to exclaim “that’s crazy.” In response, the Delta pilot became slightly defensive, acknowledging his mistake, which led the controller to assert that the pilot couldn’t play the