Traffic Pattern Aviation

Why should we have defined traffic patterns and procedures?

• Predictable and pilots now have expectations

• Pilots know where to expect other aircraft and predict their movements

• Reduces potential for mid-air collsions

• It allows for the public to identify the planes

• It reduces the number of planes in-flight

What shape is a traffic pattern?

• A rectangle

• A square

• An oval

• a circle

What is the standard height of a traffic pattern?

• 1,000 MSL

• 1,000 AGL

• 300 MSL

• 300 AGL

How many Major legs is there in a traffic pattern

• 4

• 5

• 6

• 7

Departure Leg:

• Occurs immediately after takeoff

• Must leave straight or at a 45 angle

• 300 feet below pattern altitude

• Might have to crab

• Set power after reaching pattern altitude

Crosswind Leg:

• 1/2 to 1 miles from runway

• Typically the longest leg

• 300 feet below pattern altitude

• Might have to crab

• Set power after reaching pattern altitude

Downwind Leg:

• Perpendicular to runway

• Extends beyond approach end of the runway

• 300 feet below pattern altitude

• Typically longest leg

• Set power after reaching pattern altitude

Base Leg:

• Perpendicular to runway

• Before Turning, check extended runway center line for possible straight-in traffic

• Roll out of turn at least 1/4 of a mile from the end of the runway

• If pilot executes "go-around" switch to upwind leg

Final Leg:

• Roll out of turn at least 1/4 of a mile from the end of the runway

• If pilot executes "go-around" switch to upwind leg

• Occurs immediately after takeoff

• Leave straight or at a 45 degree angle

What direction is the standard pattern?

• Left

• Right