id: pattern-entries title: Pattern Entries meta: Learn how to join the visual traffic pattern in Infinite Flight. order: 12 #

Pattern Entries #

Types of Pattern Entries #

There are numerous ways to enter the traffic pattern, however ATC instructions (if present) for pattern entry will always supersede these.

The most common technique (if you are on the side of the traffic pattern), is to enter at a 45 degee angle to the downwind leg, headed toward a point abeam the midpoint of the runway to be used for landing.

If you are on the opposite side of the traffic pattern then there are a couple of options available, these are:

How to enter the Traffic Pattern #

Step 1

: En-route to your destination, check the ATIS/D-ATIS for runway(s) in use and if pattern work is being accepted at this time

Tip

: If pattern work is currently not allowed, you can still join for a landing or touch & go, however you will not be able to continue with further patterns following this

Step 2

: If ATC is active, call inbound and announce your intentions, the Tower Controller will issue you with a pattern entry instruction. If it is Unicom, you can request traffic advisories

Tip

: If no ATC is present, it is the pilots responsibility to determine runway(s) in use, traffic pattern direction and to show courtesy towards other traffic already in the pattern. Always check your surroundings to make sure it is clear, use the Cameras and Mini Map to help you

Step 3

: The traffic pattern is normally entered at a 45 degree angle to the downwind leg, headed toward a point abeam the midpoint of the runway to be used for landing (however you may also be instructed to enter base or straight in if ATC is present)

The Traffic Pattern

Step 4

: Always enter the traffic pattern at the correct altitude. In Infinite Flight the pattern altitude is 1000ft AAL (above aerodrome level) for prop aircraft, and 1500ft AAL for jet aircraft

Tip

: Remember to give way to aircraft already established in the pattern (or follow the sequencing given by ATC if different). In either case, always announce your intentions, monitor the other traffic and adjust your speed to fit into the traffic pattern

Departing the Traffic Pattern #

If departing the traffic pattern, the pilot should continue beyond the departure end, climbing to the pattern altitude (or higher) before either:

Tip

: Make sure to always tell ATC (if present) what you are doing. If you have been told to climb straight ahead to a certain altitude, make sure you are at or above this and that it is completly clear of other traffic before making any turn!