Pilot's tip of the week

When to Announce Each Leg in the Pattern

Featuring Doug Stewart

Subscriber question:

"In the traffic pattern at a non-towered airport, some pilots call in the turn (turning base, turning final) while others call once established on those legs. Is one better than the other?" — Chad C.

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Doug:

“What I advise my clients is: Use something that is going to help other pilots see you. So, when is the best time to make those calls? Make those calls as you roll into the turns.

Midfield downwind? Well, it kind of tells where you are, but sometimes it’s hard to see. But ‘turning base’ or ‘turning downwind’—when the airplane is banked, there’s more to see.

Make those calls as you bank.”

When do you announce your position on a pattern leg?

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