Cessna 310/T310C
Flight Crew Flight Engineer; Flight Crew Air Transport Pilot (ATP); Flight Crew Flight Instructor; Flight Crew Multiengine; Flight Crew Instrument
Flight Crew Last 90 Days 250; Flight Crew Total 12000; Flight Crew Type 200
Other / Unknown
ATC Issue All Types
General None Reported / Taken
Human Factors
I was performing an operations check of my radio navigation and autopilot equipment in my airplane. The airplane is in annual; pitot/static check current; equipment certified for actual IFR use. I am a current FAR Pt. 121 Captain for an Air Carrier. Daytime VFR conditions existed at Modesto and in the entire region. I contacted NORCAL in VMC conditions approximately 30 NM east of MOD and requested multiple ILS Runway 28R approaches while remaining under VFR conditions. I was given a discrete transponder code; asked if I had current ATIS; and given a vector to intercept localizer. I inquired about missed approach procedures; knowing that frequently we are turned in the opposite direction to published procedures for training work. My reply was something like 'you can determine that later'. That seemed peculiar to me; and impossible to pre plan for. I became concerned the NORCAL Controller was confused regarding my intentions to shooting practice ILS approaches; so I asked the NORCAL Controller 'did you coordinate with Modesto Tower?' As we were speaking; I was travelling towards the Modesto Class D Airspace at a speed that would cause me to enter their airspace in roughly 60 seconds. The NORCAL Controller became what I cannot describe better than angry with me and told me to 'worry about flying the plane and wait for me to hand you off!' What he could have done was provided me with correct missed approach directions so I knew he understood my initial request. After an uneventful approach and return for another; another NORCAL Controller told me to 'squawk 1200 when you complete this approach' so I asked him; 'do I need to contact you when I cancel?' and again I received a verbal lashing for asking a question. All the Controller needed to say is 'upon completion of this approach squawk 1200 and no need to re-contact me'. Instead he insulted me for asking him. I am a Boeing 717 Captain for an airline. I can guarantee if these NORCAL controllers had behaved this way to an airline crew; they would have generated a safety report. Why do general aviation pilots have to put up with abusive behavior? Does the FAA condone unprofessional behavior of their controllers? My ego was not bruised; but if any students are intimidated into not asking valid questions during their contact with NORCAL TRACON; I see a real safety issue. Maybe I just caught these guys on a bad day? I am concerned NORCAL TRACON could be compromising safety with their abusive controllers' attitudes and condescending view of questions directed to them.
Airline Captain flying VFR in a small twin and requesting practice approaches into MOD voiced concern regarding the unprofessional handling by a NCT Controller.