Question

The recommended entry position for manned aircraft to enter an airport traffic pattern is?

1) 45 degrees to the base leg just below traffic pattern altitude
2) To enter 45 degrees at the midpoint of the downwind leg at traffic pattern altitude
3) To cross directly over the airport at traffic pattern altitude and join the downwind leg

Answer 1

The recommended entry for an aircraft to an airport traffic pattern is at a 45-degree angle to the midpoint of the downwind leg at traffic pattern altitude. Taking off into the wind is preferred as it provides greater lift at lower ground speeds, conserving fuel, and increasing safety margins.

Step-by-step explanation:

Recommended Aircraft Traffic Pattern Entry

The recommended entry position for manned aircraft to enter an airport traffic pattern is to enter at a 45-degree angle at the midpoint of the downwind leg at traffic pattern altitude. This standardized approach helps in maintaining an orderly flow of air traffic and in minimizing conflicts between aircrafts when approaching or leaving an aerodrome.

It is preferable for airplanes to take off into the wind because the relative wind speed increases over the wings, which helps the aircraft achieve the necessary lift at a lower ground speed. This practice not only saves fuel but also allows for shorter takeoffs and provides a safety margin by reducing the distance to clear any obstacles in the flight path.