Mike Kunst – Northwest Area – March 2022

On March 6, 2022, JZA828 was descending southeast-bound from FL390 to FL310 when checking onto Mike’s frequency. The aircraft was transitioning from ZMP’s airspace and on a direct path into moderate convective weather.  Mr. Kunst advised the pilot of the weather and suggested course deviation to the left.  The pilot elected to turn 60 degrees to the left.  Mr. Kunst asked the pilot if he had received any weather information from the last controller, but did not receive a reply.  The pilot was unable to view the weather so far off to the left of their nose on the weather radar, so he asked Mr. Kunst to advise when the center weather radar showed the aircraft clear. Mr. Kunst provided detailed information regarding the extent of the displayed weather and the likely path this crew would need to fly to reach O’Hare.

Just before Mr. Kunst transferred communications back to ZMP, the pilot reported encountering moderate to severe turbulence.  Mr. Kunst immediately descended the aircraft to FL290, then FL270 in order to escape the turbulence.  All required coordination was completed quickly and efficiently.  The severe downgraded to moderate turbulence around FL280.  Mr. Kunst waited until an appropriate time to query the pilot regarding damage and injury.  None was reported.  JZA828 continued to ORD without any additional turbulence encounters.

Mr. Kunst’s conscientious and professional care for the well-being of the occupants of JZA828 shone through in this situation. This was an excellent example of Mr. Kunst’s on-going dedication to providing excellent air traffic control service. Well done, Mike!