On Monday, August 1, 2016 at 9:27:37 AM UTC-4, kirk.stant wrote:
On Monday, August 1, 2016 at 6:59:04 AM UTC-5, Tango Eight wrote:

...pop quiz then.

You're #3 in the pattern behind a student in a 1-34 flying a standard glider pattern and a tow plane. Behind you is another student + CFI in an L-23. What kind of pattern are you going to fly, and why?

Situation number 2: You enter the pattern a bit low (so not enough to orbit) and a student in a L-23 enters the pattern behind and below you - what kind of pattern are you going to fly and why?

There are times when a big "bomber" pattern are necessary and safer; there are also times when you have to get on the ground as fast as possible. A competently trained pilot can adapt to whatever situation is encountered and fly accordingly.

kirk
66


So: what type of traffic pattern allows the greatest degree of flexibility to meet the needs of a wide variety of situations (traffic, weather, etc.)?


Where I'm going with this: the guy who has made up his mind 5 (or 500) miles out what sort of pattern he is going to fly ("I always...") and sticks to that plan like glue is a pain in the ass (at best).


best,
Evan