What is Circuit altitude?
What is Circuit altitude?
Circuit altitude (pattern altitude or TPA in the United States) is the altitude at which an airplane is supposed to fly its downwind leg. This ensures a stable approach and a uniform altitude for other traffic, reducing potential conflicts.
How is airport elevation calculated?
To get to the figure mathematically, we need to remember that 1 mb = 30 feet. Take the airfield elevation which in this example is 550 feet (for Popham airfield). You then find divide that elevation, by 30. Then, you take the 18 and take it away from the current QNH.
What is airport pattern altitude?
The traffic pattern altitude is usually 1,000 feet above the elevation of the airport surface. When entering the traffic pattern at an airport without an operating control tower, inbound pilots are expected to observe other aircraft already in the pattern and to conform to the traffic pattern in use.
What is the circuit in aviation?
A circuit consists of five legs – the take-off, crosswind, downwind, base and final approach to the runway. A simplified representation is shown in this picture. The take off and final stage of the circuit is flown into the wind, as this is the safest way for an aircraft to operate.
What is the normal circuit height for a general aviation aircraft?
1000 ft
| Type of aircraft | Standard circuit speed | Standard circuit height |
|---|---|---|
| Medium performance (includes most piston engine aircraft and gliders) | Between approximately 55 kt and 150 kt | 1000 ft above aerodrome elevation |
| Low performance (trikes and ultralight aircraft) | Approximately 55 kt maximum | 500 ft above aerodrome elevation |
Is traffic pattern altitude MSL or AGL?
While the traffic patterns are typically 1,000 feet AGL (and are usually referenced to MSL altitudes so you can use the altimeter to comply), there are some patterns that might be as little as 600 feet, and some closer to 1500 feet, especially if there is a nearby hill or obstacle to clear.
Why do we fly circuits?
The circuit pattern is the orderly take-off and landing flow of aerodrome traffic. Maintaining it is crucial to even the most major airports. Procedures will vary locally at different aerodromes that may have other factors to consider (terrain etc).