Pilot-in-command's aerodrome duties & circuit direction
Before taking off, landing, or otherwise operating at any aerodrome (controlled or uncontrolled), the pilot-in-command must be satisfied:
| Satisfied that | Cite |
|---|---|
| No likelihood of collision with another aircraft or vehicle | CAR 602.96(2)(a) |
| Aerodrome suits the intended operation | CAR 602.96(2)(b) |
Adds to right-of-way and circuit rules.
At or near the aerodrome, the pilot must:
| Duty | Detail | Cite |
|---|---|---|
| Observe traffic | Avoid a collision | CAR 602.96(3)(a) |
| Conform to, or avoid, the traffic pattern | Pattern formed by other aircraft operating | CAR 602.96(3)(b) |
| Turn left in the circuit | All circuit turns left, unless the CFS specifies right turns or the appropriate ATC unit authorizes otherwise | CAR 602.96(3)(c) |
| Comply with published restrictions | Airport or heliport operating restriction the Minister specifies in the Canada Flight Supplement or a NOTAM | CAR 602.96(3)(d) |
| Land and take off into the wind | Where practicable, unless the appropriate ATC unit authorizes otherwise | CAR 602.96(3)(e) |
| Keep a listening watch | On the appropriate aerodrome control frequency; if not possible and an ATC unit operates there, watch for visual instructions | CAR 602.96(3)(f) |
Circuit direction:
- Applies at any aerodrome, controlled or uncontrolled (CAR 602.96(1)), not just MF-area.
- Aerodrome traffic: all traffic on the movement area, plus all aircraft operating at or in the vicinity of the aerodrome (CAR 101.01(1)).
Right-hand circuits (TP 1102, The Circuit: Right Hand Circuits):
- Published where conflicting traffic or hazardous terrain requires.
- Apply to an entire aerodrome or just specific runways.
- CFS lists every exception.
- Where required (CAR 602.96(3)(c)): fly exact opposite of standard left-hand circuit diagram (TC AIM RAC 4.3).
Trap: assuming right circuits are pilot's choice, or that left turns apply only at controlled or MF aerodromes. Right turns need a published CFS note or ATC authorization.
Sign the register (recommended practice, not a CAR duty):
- On arrival at an uncontrolled aerodrome.
- In addition to filing an arrival report or notifying flight itinerary contact (TP 1102, Pilot Navigation, Arrival).
References
- CARs 602.96
- CARs 602.96(2)
- CARs 602.96(3)(a),(b),(d),(e),(f)
- CAR 101.01(1)
- TP 1102, Airport Operations chapter (Joining the Circuit)
- TP 1102, The Circuit: Right Hand Circuits
- TP 1102, Pilot Navigation chapter (Arrival)