Joining the circuit at uncontrolled aerodromes
Radio-equipped pilot joins uncontrolled circuit from the non-active side by default. NORDO/RONLY use a different, stricter procedure.
Applies at any aerodrome without an ATC unit. Exception: aircraft flying a standard instrument approach (RAC 4.5.2; see RAC 9.0).
Entering the circuit, any aerodrome:
- Don't cut off another aircraft.
- Conform as closely as possible to the altitude, speed, and size of the circuit flown by similar-performance aircraft (RAC 4.3).
- In the circuit = approaching to land (RAC 4.5.2). Includes:
- midfield crosswind leg just before joining downwind
- 45-degree entry to downwind
Joining, uncontrolled aerodrome (RAC 4.5.2):
| Situation | Procedure |
|---|---|
| Default | Approach from the non-active side, unless applicable distance-from-cloud criteria require otherwise |
| Alternative | Join straight onto downwind leg, once no conflict confirmed with traffic entering or in the circuit |
| Crossing from non-active side | Plan descent to cross runway in level flight at circuit altitude. Hold until descending for landing |
| MF area with advisory information available | Join straight-in, at 45 degrees to downwind, or straight-in to base or final. Watch for other VFR traffic entering at the same points, and IFR aircraft on straight-in or circling approach |
| Crossing aerodrome before joining | Cross at least 500 ft above the highest circuit altitude in use. Keep all descents on the non-active side, or well clear of the circuit pattern |
- Straight-in approaches discouraged whenever other aircraft are in the circuit: raise conflict and mid-air collision risk (RAC 4.5.2).
Trap: non-active side entry is the default; straight onto downwind only after confirming no conflict, never a routine shortcut.
References
- TC AIM RAC 4.3
- TC AIM RAC 4.5.2