Bob,

The AC you referenced AC 90-66a says in "7. GENERAL OPERATING PROCEDURES
....E. The FAA encourages pilots to use the standard traffic pattern.
However, for those pilots who choose to execute a straight-in approach ,
maneuvering..." I believe that this clearly indicates that the 45 entry is
the standard traffic pattern and that the straight-in is an exception to the
standard.

Perhaps my 2005 AIM differs from your AIM. The note under 4-3-3 "Examples
Key to traffic pattern operations 1. Enter pattern in level flight, abeam
the midpoint of the runway, at pattern altitude..." supports the entry we
both think is best.

In my 2005 AIM
4-3-4 is "Visual Indicators ar Airports Without an Operating Control Tower".
4-3-3 is "Traffic Patterns".

I thank you for your reference to AC 90-66a which I have read and since we
both agree on the best entry don't see much value in arguing about the
justification for that opinion especially since the Original Poster asked
for "Opinions."

I will, since I respect your opinion, let you have the last word, if you
choose, and will read what you have to say and then drop the matter.

Daniel

What you are missing is that 4-3-2 deals with application of traffic
pattern indicators, period. Look at the note near 4-3-1 to see what the
writers of the AIM say about traffic pattern entries.

Bob

"Daniel L. Lieberman" wrote in message
...
Bob,

Perhaps I am misunderstanding something but Figure 4-3-2 of the 2005 AIM
Shows only one entry to the pattern.

That is what you suggested. The straight in (his second choice) is
probably more dangerous. I would be concerned about the possibility of
(if there is an Instrument Approach to 36) someone coming in behind or
above me.

I will look up the AC you referenced in an attempt to learn more. I know
one of the local DPEs might fail the straight in since he says the PTS
incorporates the AIM.

Daniel


"Bob Gardner" wrote in message
...
I like your first solution better than the second. Having said that,
neither the regs nor the AIM provide much guidance in the situation you
describe. Look at Advisory Circular 90-66A for more relevant information.

Bob Gardner

wrote in message
...
Consider you're NE of the airfield, non towered airport, runway 18/36,
standard left pattern applies, with runway 36 the active. I'm
interested in hearing what your personal method of joining the pattern
would be, while adhering to the FAR's and AIM.

I've two thoughts:

Fly south, then west, pass overhead the field, and then 2 or 3 miles
later do a descending 225 degree right turn, and join on a 45 degree
to downwind, or

Stay east and then south of the airport, and join a straight in
outside 5 sm.

Opinions?

Stan






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