A319
Flight Crew Multiengine; Flight Crew Instrument; Flight Crew Air Transport Pilot (ATP)
Flight Crew Last 90 Days 150; Flight Crew Total 1562; Flight Crew Type 9300
Communication Breakdown
ATC Issue All Types; Deviation / Discrepancy - Procedural Published Material / Policy
Flight Crew Requested ATC Assistance / Clarification
Human Factors; Procedure
We checked in to Kansas City Center at FL280 on an assigned heading. Check in was acknowledged as usual by the controller. Our last ATC clearance was to fly a heading nearly 90 degrees off course; away from our destination; and to expect more in 4 minutes. As nearly 5 minutes had passed; we inquired about our clearance for an update as to when we could expect to turn back on course. A voice sarcastically responded; and reminded us 'we were going to a very busy airport.' As this response was so sarcastic and of no help whatsoever; we assumed it was anyone but an Air Traffic Controller and ignored it; believing the controller and was also ignoring the sarcastic outburst. A short time later; we were given further instructions. The male voice added; 'you can come to the center and apply for jobs.' We complied with the clearance and then realized we had a controller working the sector and another adding (on 2 occasions now) sarcastic; angry comments. It was all very confusing. Upon handoff to Chicago by the controller (professional); we requested the initials of the sarcastic individual who was making everyone's job that much harder; especially the job of the professional controller. We got another rant about how unprofessional we were and an incomplete phone number from the still unidentified voice. We changed frequencies and normal ATC communications resumed. I have never had such a confusing exchange with ATC; never needed to be reminded I was flying into a busy airport; and never have been invited to Center to apply for a job for clarifying a clearance/clearance limit and seeking information for planning purposes. I hope no one has a similar experience.
A319 Captain reported sarcastic unprofessional controller while in Kansas City airspace.