Years ago when Geman ATC was racked by industrial action, I heard Panam (remember them!) after long delay on start up at Framkfurt “Frankfurt, you are the worlds second best ATC.” FFM ATC then replied pleased and surprised, “Who then is the best?” Clipper 1, “Everybody else”!
When turbo-compounds were the most common engines and JAL served Chicago and Hawaii it was overheard on Clearance Delivery:
CD: “JAL 92 Cleared to Honolulu As Filed, Fly heading 280, climb and maintain Ten Thousand, Read Back Please”
JA92: “Japan Nine Two, To Hickham Field As Filed, Heading 280, maintain Ten Thousand”
CD: “Negative, JAL 92 Cleared TO Honolulu (not the airport but a VOR located on the airport) As Filed, Fly heading 280, climb and maintain Ten Thousand, Read Back Please”
JA92: “No can say HONORURU! HICKHAM GOOD ENOUGH!”
When the pilot lands does he get into his Rincoln?