Great thread. I've got two to keep it going.
The other day we on our way into DFW. It wasn't too busy but there was a front moving through which had switched flow to a north flow through the course of the day. We park on the west side but were coming from the east so expecting 35C. We had asked if we could get 36L instead and were waiting for ATC to come back.
ATC: EGLxxxx, sorry we won't be able to accommodate tonight. Expect ILS 17C
After a quick glance at the captain.
Me: Roger that's ok. Expect 17C?
ATC: Ugh. Sorry expect 35C. It's been a long day.
Me: Ha ya. Understood. We just didn't want to be the one awkward duckling going the wrong way down a one way street.
ATC: (chuckling) Roger that.
Unknown A/C: Ya. You only get to do that once.
After a long day, we all thought it was funny.
The other happened several years ago to a student of mine on his first solo cross country. He was a great student who learned quickly and always strived to do everything the correct way. Mostly in part to his military and law background. He had finished his first leg and was headed back towards KCLL about 50 or so miles out and just checked in with Houston Center.
ATC: Cessna 5452D, hello, KCLL altimeter xx.xx, advise you have whiskey on board.
Well.... My student was a little confused at ATC's last request.
Student: uuuuuhhhhh... Altimeter xx.xx uuuuuhhhhh and uuuhhh no I don't have any whiskey on board.
ATC: No. Advise when you have whiskey at KCLL.
Student: Sir I'm sorry. I don't understand. I don't have any whiskey. My instructor says I'm not allowed to drink and fly.
By this time the controller is laughing which isn't helping. And my student is starting to get nervous.
ATC: Cessna 52D, we know. We need to know when you have received the weather there at KCLL. The ATIS is designated information WHISKEY.
Student: (Sounding relieved) Oh ok. 52D will go get the ATIS at KCLL. Man I was getting nervous. I didn't know what you were talking about.
The rest of the flight went well and we have a good laugh about it when he got back.