I just heard through the "grape vine," that Santa's transponder and encoder "crapped out" while shooting the approach into Kennedy. He got a special VFR, made the landing and blocked in at the avionics shop. As he was having a hot chocolate in the terminal; waiting for the repair to be completed; to his amazement what does he see? A FAA inspector in the process of the infamous "ramp check." Santa glared through the glass window, watching the agent's every move. The agent soon notice Santa's stare and motioned; to join him on the tarmac. As Santa approached the agent he noticed he was quite young...possibly right out of the FAA school of "the 10,000 possible violations that an aircraft operator can commit." The young agent informed Santa that he had three issues that needed immediate attention. One, the airworthiness certificate was not in plain sight. Two, the lead reindeer's (Rudolph) light was not of the correct candle power. (not bright enough) Three, there was a noticeable nick (damage) to the leading edge of the lead reindeer's right antler. Not being one to argue with the "FEDS," Santa nodded in agreement; smiled and moved a large bag of toys to a different position exposing the document in question, made a quick change to the weight and balance; turned and made his way toward the lead reindeer's position. Clean rag in his left hand and a can of "spray cleaner" in the right; he cleaned the "flight grime" from the illumination device on the lead reindeer, which now shown with "eye squinting" brightness. Not to be out done...the young agent barked..."What about the nick, what are you going to do about that?" With a twinkle in his eye and a finger to the side of his nose; what did appear? An eight inch; shinny round file and a manual of information from which to adhere. With several strokes from his chubby left hand, Santa smoothed and blended the nick with the essences of a "sculpture artiste." (He has an A&P) Santa made a log book entry for the repair and so did the avionics boys, who just re-installed the transponder and encoder. Santa shook the agent's hand wishing him a Merry Christmas and gave him a toy plane from his bag. Santa filed; got clearance and was heard as he flew out of sight, "Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night."
Merry Christmas and worldwide peace.
Norm
Topic: Santa got "ramp checked." (Read 1234 times)
