Episode 259 Show Notes   Topic of the show: We endorse flight following!  But what should you do if you can’t break the controller away long enough to initiate flight following?  We will discuss busy airspace, conflicting traffic, and tools to ensure you get flight following services as early as possible.  We also discuss lost communication, alternate airports, and more of your awesome aviation feedback.  Merry Christmas from RH and AG!  Fly safely and have a great week!   Timely Feedback: 1. Patron Sierra Mike shares some thoughts on how they teach their flight students about lost communications and alternate airports. 2. Patron Juliet Mike sent audio explaining the knowledge gap between ATC and the FARs. 3. We got some feedback about the student pilot quitting her flight training right after an encounter with a mean air traffic controller. Come on back! We promise that isn’t the normal type of interaction you should expect from air traffic.  Don’t set aside your flight training goals because of a radio mixup on your solo flight.  If you are ever in the TRIAD area, we’d be happy to show you what to expect from ATC: professionalism and a positive attitude!   Feedback Patron Juliet Romeo Papa shares a positive interaction with ATC during an equipment malfunction. Patron Whiskey Oscar asks about duty limitations and shift times. Holiday/Christmas audio used during this special episode is from https://www.youtube.com/@audiolibrary_ no copyright music in library for creators. Have a great week and thanks for listening!  Visit our website at OpposingBases.com You can support our show using Patreon or visiting our support page on the website.  Keep the feedback coming, it drives the show! Don’t be shy, use the “Send Audio to AG and RH” button on the website and record an audio message. Or you can send us comments or questions to [email protected]. Find us on twitter @opposing_bases.  Music by audionautix.com.  Third party audio provided by liveatc.net.  Friends of the show and maker of bags to protect your ATC headset from dust and germs: ATCSaks.com. Keep the gunk and funk away from your most valuable pilot gear: https://pilotsaks.com/. Legal Notice  The hosts of Opposing Bases Air Traffic Talk podcast are speaking on behalf of Opposing Bases, LLC.  Opposing Bases, LLC does not represent the Federal Aviation Administration, Department of Transportation, or the National Air Traffic Controllers Association.  All opinions expressed in the show are for entertainment purposes only.  There is no nexus between Opposing Bases, LLC and the FAA or NATCA.  All episodes are the property of Opposing Bases, LLC and shall not be recorded or transcribed without express written consent.  For official guidance on laws and regulations, refer to your local Flight Standards District Office or Certified Flight Instructor.  Opposing Bases, LLC offers this podcast to promote aviation safety and enhance the knowledge of its listeners but makes no guarantees to listeners regarding accuracy or legal applications.