Study Guide
45° Entry and Left Hand Turns
Standard Airport Traffic Entry: The 45° Angle Approach
The usual way to join the airport traffic pattern is by coming in at a 45-degree angle towards the downwind leg, right around the middle (aka midpoint) of the runway.
The aircraft is still in the air at this point. It is entering the runway airspace.
Navigating the Left-Hand Traffic Pattern
In order for an aircraft pilot to make their way towards the final landing runway strip, they will make a series of left-hand turns after entering at the 45-degree downwind midpoint of the runway .
The standard airport traffic pattern involves making all turns to the left in a circular motion. Pilots usually join this pattern by approaching at a 45-degree angle toward the downwind leg, aiming for the midpoint of the runway.
However, it’s essential to check the chart supplement for the specific airport you’re operating at, as traffic patterns can vary from airport to airport. Always verify the pattern details to ensure compliance with local procedures.
3 Directional Legs of Landing an Airplane
As you’ll see in the diagram below, all turns follow this left-hand flow, starting with the entry parallel to the runway, turning left onto the base leg, and finally making another left turn onto the final approach for landing.
Here are the three steps:
Step 1: Downwind Leg: (flying with the wind)
Begin by flying parallel to the runway in the opposite direction of where you’ll land. This is called the downwind leg, where you’re flying with the wind.
Step 2: Base Leg Flight: (closer to final runway)
Make a 90-degree turn, typically to the left, to position yourself for final approach. This turn helps you see the ground better, getting you closer to the runway.
Step 3: Final Approach to Runway (for touchdown / landing )
Make one more 90-degree turn to line up with the runway. You’ll now be pointed directly at the runway number, flying upwind (against the wind) ready to touchdown and land.
Practice Quiz
