by Joseph E. (Jeb) Burnside

When we’re not accustomed to operating in high-density areas, flying into a busy terminal in a single or light twin can be unnerving. It’s busy airspace, and everyone expects a certain level of proficiency. Planning ahead and refusing to be intimidated into doing something with which we’re not comfortable are keys to success. Sometimes, though, the willingness to project a “can-do” attitude for the controllers and others on the frequency can have drastic results.

Whether a result of peer pressure, a desire to demonstrate that we have the “right stuff,” or overconfidence in one’s abilities—or all three—we often try to “make ends meet” when the idea of…