Is there a difference between "make short approach" and "direct to the numbers".?

Question

Is there a difference between "make short approach" and "direct to the numbers".?

Answer 1

I suspect that one is standard ATC terminology and one is not. "Make short approach" is very common and makes sense.

"Direct to the numbers" suggests a lot of questions about safety. For example, I'm supposed to land on the numbers. From my present position can I descend to the runway at an angle that is not a normal straight-in approach and not hit trees, towers, comm/nav facilities, buildings, etc.? I know the area straight out from the runway is protected to a certain distance, but can I be sure about the area that's at a 45-degree angle from the end of the runway?

So I suspect, but am not sure, that "direct to the numbers" is a non-standard phrase that might be in use at some facilities but is less than optimum.

Answer 2

Nope. He just wants you to get on deck.

Answer 3

They are both the same in the sence that they are both "requests" and not demands. Remember PIC is responsible for safety above and beyond what ATC wants.

Answer 4

'straight to the numbers' usually implies that there is other traffic most likely on an extended final, and from your position the controller wants you to stay clear by approaching from an angle (i.e. not squaring the pattern up).

You won't likely hear 'straight to the numbers' when you're on a downwind for example.  In that case they'd most likely say 'make short approach'.  On a short approach they don't mind if you fly a square pattern, just keep it tight.

The other spacing call you may get, most likely when you're already established on final, would be 'keep your speed up'.  Sort of self explanitory really.