Happy Thanksgiving Everyone! I am writing to share an experience I had today that I had pondered, but did not figure would effect me. I was wrong.

This afternoon I received a call from the FAA and they were not calling to wish me a happy holiday.

They were responding to a report from someone on the ground that indicated two aircraft were nearly in a mid air collision. I was squawking 1200 and there was no way my registration numbers were visible from the ground. They had looked into the radar tracks in the area at the time and had identified my aircraft (from the ADS B that reports my registration number I presume), had dug up my phone number and they wanted to know what had happen.

It was unclear what their intent was and when I asked, they indicated that if I was involved in the situation they would advise me to be alert, use proper reporting procedures and to advise me that I was nearly in a mid air collision. From their questioning, it appeared they were looking for me to incriminate the other aircraft/pilot.

As it turned out, I was in visual and radio contact with the other aircraft and had them on ADS B.

Just a reminder that there are many benefits from ADS B, but it also provides a very detailed record that can be misinterpreted and/or used to incriminate you. They are watching and following up. A consideration as you upgrade in prep for 2020.

Fly safe..

Sincerely,
SI