TRAFFIC PATTERNS
For arriving aircraft similar separation standards apply. IFR flights use a standard instrument approach whenarriving at an airport. VFR pilots follow a standard traffic pattern. The VFR traffic pattern is an established,standardized flight pattern.
Traffic Pattern Image
Normally landings and departures are flown into the wind. The typical traffic patterns flown at most airportsare left traffic patterns (as shown above). Obstructions, noise sensitive areas, and parallel runways, though oftenrequire right traffic patterns.
Upwind leg
A flight path parallel to the landing runway in the direction of landing.
Crosswind leg
A flight path at right angles to the landing runway off its takeoff end.
Downwind leg
A flight path parallel to the landing runway in the opposite direction of landing
Base leg
A flight path at right angles to the landing runway off its approach end and extending from the downwind leg tothe intersection of the extended runway centerline.
Final approach
A flight path in the direction of landing along the extended runway centerline from the base leg to the runway.
Departure leg
The flight path which begins after takeoff and continues straight ahead along the runway centerline. The departureclimb continues until reaching a point at least 1/2 mile beyond the departure end of the runway and within 300feet of the traffic pattern altitude.
Traffic pattern altitudes are usually 1000 feet AGL (Above Ground Level), but may be as low as 600 feet AGLor as high as 1500 feet AGL.
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