We live in a different and more rigid time. But then I have not flown a Christmas eve since way back when. I don't know if any of you experienced this type of Christmas eve. Many years ago, in the early to mid 1970's, I was flying small freight parcels at night between Tucson and Phoenix, and sometimes to Bakersfield, in single engine aircraft or small twins. I would leave anywhere from 10 to 11 p.m., off load my parcels to a waiting aircraft in Phoenix or a truck in Bakersfield, and turn around to head home.
I remember one Christmas eve in particular, paraphrased of course....."Albuquerque ATC, American 421, we have a strange target descending at our 2 o'clock, well lit with a bright red light in front. Do you have him?" "We have him, and giving vectors and altitude to Phoenix. Give him a wide berth and have a Merry Christmas."
The chatter would continue and we could all jibe in. The night I recall was CAVU, bright with stars, and you could feel the joy and goodwill over the airways.
Merry Christmas to you all......