Pilot's Tip of the Week

Downwind Departures

Featuring Wally Moran - view profile

Subscriber Question:
"When departing a non-towered airport, say you are going to make a downwind departure. Is it best to remain at pattern altitude in the vicinity of the airport or continue to climb in the pattern?" - Phillip E.

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Wally:
"The aeronautical information manual does not list a downwind departure as a recommended procedure (for a non-towered airport). It says in part...
If departing the pattern, continue straight out, or exit with a 45 degree turn beyond the departure end of the runway after reaching pattern altitude.
While the AIM is not mandatory, it is considered the best practice.
Naturally, if you also announce your intentions on the CTAF you are helping the other pilots in the area.
In any case, however you choose to depart the pattern, there is no requirement to level off at pattern altitude until leaving the pattern. So feel free to climb away."

Next week's tip: Turbulence versus altitude


Side note: Interesting comment on the subject:

Dan Jenkins •

Very interesting. In reading these comments, I'm reminded of what I encounter at most non towered airports....pilots doing every maneuver under the sun....very few standard procedures at all. I find it so bad, at times, I just leave the pattern because it has become dangerous. Here in south Florida we have to deal with another hazard. Flight schools are letting students who can barely speak English venture out solo to get practice and they create quite a problem. What can be done? Well, I guess the only thing is that the FAA needs to greatly stiffen up the requirements for solo and private pilot certification. Any other suggestions?