Originally Posted by
WyomingBound
I have searched high and low and figured since this thread was about diversions, what a better place to ask the question.
For any AV Geeks, are there certain frequencies on LiveATC.net that planes use to communicate with ATC in regards to circling, or diversions, or where to divert? I know there are several other communication options. I would assume for example on weather at ATL they would communicate with ATL Center? Just curious as it’s summertime and always a good time of the year to listen.....I use flight aware a good bit to watch stuff but wanted to add listening to the list.
They talk to ATC on the frequency they’re currently on. There are 20 centers, each having 20+ frequencies divided out by sectors. There are also 27 TRACONs (approach and arrival, generally ground to 18k feet) each with a dozen or so frequencies. Tower can also be broken up. For example, ATL has 5 tower frequencies for each runway, but generally consolidates onto 2 or 3.
When I see weather coming in ATL, I frequently pull up Flightaware and see where the action is. I usually enjoy listening to approach for the northeast quadrant since there are a lot of planes (final approach 26R/8L). I also like listening to tower at times to hear them work out the reroutes. I select based on Flight Radar 24 based on the complexity I see developing (more planes or perhaps a lot of planes needing to cross runways). But there isn’t a single frequency that answers it all.
Lastly reroutes. Most are sent electronically and I’m guessing DL Dispatch files most of them. I also think ATC/DL sends most via ACARS (or whatever the tech is called today) to the plane. You’ll rarely hear a new clearance being given while a plane is in the air.