Phraseology

You know, the system really does have a set of rules so that everyone is on the same page, and two great big planes loaded with loved ones don't meet unexpectedly at thirty thousand feet.

Which is why I'm always amazed when one of the guys I work with, totally disregards those rules, and is then surprised when bad things happen.

Take MM for example. I was working the sector next to his when I hear him say "American three forty two, boogie on down to flight level two four zero."

Boogie on down.

Exactly what rate of descent is a "boogie"?

Fortunately, the aircraft descended. Unfortunately, but only for MM, the aircraft's boogie rate wasn't fast enough to ensure the five miles we use for safety.