This flight turns into a real-time weather diversion and a lesson in comfort levels. Jason and Magda see nasty returns building and decide to change the plan. ATC suggests a heading through a visible gap, but Jason is not comfortable relying on a gap that could close. He chooses the long way around and keeps multiple backup options in mind on the flight deck.
Recognizing the Weather Diversion Shift Early
The weather changes fast in this video, even after a clear departure earlier in the day. Jason references the radar looking nasty and treats that as a decision point, not a curiosity. He also keeps the storm’s movement in mind, since a safe route now can become unsafe minutes later. The goal stays simple: avoid threading a path through extreme precipitation.
Asking for Help and Setting Expectations with ATC
Jason calls Tampa Approach and communicates clearly about position, altitude, and the intention to land at Tampa International. The exchange sounds similar to picking up flight following, but the key difference is the immediate need to manage weather diversion along the route. ATC provides routing and information updates, and Jason stays ready to adjust again if conditions change.
Why Jason Says “No” to the Gap
A gap can look perfect on a screen, but Jason does not treat it as a guarantee. He explains that he is not a “gap kind of guy” and would rather take the long route around. He also points out the risk of getting away with it once and then normalizing the gamble. With plenty of fuel, the safer choice becomes the easier choice.
Using Tools Without Trusting Only One Tool
Jason shows why redundancy matters by comparing two ADS-B weather sources. One display lags behind, while another shows a clearer picture, and the updates do not always arrive at the same time. He treats the age of the radar image as a factor and keeps eyes outside while continuing to evaluate what he sees ahead. The technology helps, but the decision still stays conservative.
Staying Flexible with Alternates and Altitude in Weather Diversion
As weather diversion develops, Jason keeps alternates in mind and talks through options like going around Lakeland or even turning back if needed. He notes that ceilings can drop as you work around crummier weather, so he begins adjusting altitude at his discretion when the controller allows it. The plan stays dynamic, and the priority remains staying legal VFR while keeping margin.
Getting into Tampa Executive Safely Under the Bravo Shelf
The flight ends up at Tampa Executive instead of Tampa International, and Jason explains the arrival geometry with the nearby Bravo shelf in mind. He plans an overfly and a maneuver back to a left downwind for Runway 5, while staying under the Bravo that begins at 1,200 feet. Traffic, birds, and spacing all add workload, so communication stays steady and the pattern entry stays deliberate. The pilot in command has final authority for safe operation, even when working with ATC instructions and suggestions per FAR Part 91.3.
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