How important is an Accurate read back

[dan9125]

Thought this read back was funny while flight 7776 was inbound to Buffalo.

 Dan

[KSYR-pjr]

Hopefully he pointed his aircraft in the correct direction after passing through eleven thousand. 

[dan9125]

Where is trava?

[KSYR-pjr]

TRAVA is an intermediate fix on the ILS 23 approach into Buffalo,  Typically it is assumed that the inbound aircraft has heard the ATIS and therefore knows what approach is in use.  With this knowledge, the pilots should have started briefing the approach and should be familiar with fixes along the approach:

[Greg01]

Dan, I think it might've surprised him because he was expecting something like: "CHQ7776, reaching 11000 proceed direct KLUMP, expect vectors ILS 23 appraoch."

Instead this controller (whom I am good friends with) told him to go direct Trava more than likely to then join the localizer. This way he'll be able to join the localizer without vectors well outside the approach gate which will give him time to get established.

[dan9125]

Peter/Greg,
  Thanks for the info and the approach chart. I do have a question for Greg though, what is the policy for visitors in the tower? Is it ever allowed? I've often thought about stopping and asking for a quick tour but figured they would think I was crazy. Ask your friend next time you see him if you don't mind. Thanks Again-Dan
   

[Greg01]

Don't worry, everytime I show up at the door there they look at me like I'm crazy! 

Just give the ATCT a call and ask to talk to a supervisor regarding a tour. It shouldn't be a problem.

Check your PM.