Readback: March 2019

The answer to Question 5 in your December Quiz says, Circling approaches require left-hand turns unless the approach procedure explicitly states otherwise. Is this still a true statement when the runway youre landing on is published right traffic? Ive found that the AC and the regs dont address this clearly. I believe that the intent is that the required direction of turns is in accordance with the published traffic pattern (absent requirements to the contrary on the approach procedure), but Ive been unable to get a satisfactory answer.

Editorial Staff

Sunday, February 17, 2019 at 12:00 AM ET

Verified

Key Takeaways:

Pilots should follow normal traffic pattern rules for circling approaches (typically left turns unless otherwise specified by ATC or the procedure) and maintain specific distances from thunderstorms (20 NM for severe, 5 NM for non-severe).
Several readers emphasize the critical importance of proactive and thorough aircraft maintenance beyond minimum legal requirements to enhance safety, acknowledging that some emergencies can still occur.
The magazine clarifies that a previously mentioned "quick weather" text service is not entirely free, offering only 10 free uses before requiring a paid subscription, and reminds readers that archived issues are already available on their website for subscribers.

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Which Way to Turn?

The answer to Question 5 in your December Quiz says, “Circling approaches require left-hand turns unless the approach procedure explicitly states otherwise.” Is this still a true statement when the runway you’re landing on is published right traffic? I’ve found that the AC and the regs don’t address this clearly. I believe that the intent is that the required direction of turns is in accordance with the published traffic pattern (absent requirements to the contrary on the approach procedure), but I’ve been unable to get a satisfactory answer.

Karl von Valtier
Lewis Center, OH