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Traffic Pattern Procedure

The diagram shows qualitatively and quantitatively (for the Skyhawk) how to fly closed traffic. A good reference to flying traffic patterns is Advisory Circular AC 90-66A.

Radio Procedure for Uncontrolled Airfields

The AIM says to make all the following calls, but one reference I read suggests it is too much of a good thing, especially on a busy day. It might be good idea to follow the AIM until your instructor suggests otherwise.

• before entering the runway: “Hollister Traffic, Cessna 739YE departing 24, leftclosed traffic, Hollister”
• on upwind: “Hollister Traffic, Cessna 9YE, upwind 24, left closed traffic, Hollister”
• turning crosswind: “Hollister Traffic, Cessna 9YE turning left crosswind, Hollister”
• turning downwind: “Hollister Traffic, Cessna 9YE turning left downwind, Hollister”
• turning base: “Hollister Traffic, Cessna 9YE turning left base, Hollister”
• turning final: “Hollister Traffic, Cessna 9YE turning final, landing/touch-and-go Hollister”
• after landing: “Hollister Traffic, Cessna 9YE clear of 24, Hollister”

The ‘GUMPS’ checklist is variously defined, and not all items are applicable to any particular aircraft:

• Gas: verify fuel selector both;
• Undercarriage: lower;
• Mixture: rich;
• Props/Pumps: adjust variable-pitch propellers and check fuel pumps;
• Seat Belts: verify pilot and passenger seat belts and harnesses.

Radio Procedure for Controlled Airfields

Ask Ground for a generic departure:

• “Reid-Hillview Ground, Cessna 9YE at the general aviation ramp, taxi for departure, with information E”

When ready, call Tower and ask for ‘pattern work’

• “Reid-Hillview Tower, Cessna 9YE holding short 31 Right, pattern work”

Follow normal controlled airfield radio procedure. Each way through the pattern, at some point Tower will clear you for the ‘option’.

• “Cessna 9YE cleared for the option, 31 Right”
• “Cleared for the option, 31 Right, 9YE”

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