09 Circuit Introduction

The circuit is an orderly pattern used to position the gyroplane for landing and minimise the risk of conflict with other aircraft.

Aerodromes attract aircraft, therefore rules and procedures are required to maintain an orderly sequence or flow of traffic. Knowing that aircraft should be following published procedures makes it easier to identify which runway should be used, where other aircraft are or can be expected to be, and their position in the traffic sequence.

Having right of way does not remove the pilot-in-command’s responsibility to avoid a collision.

The standard circuit pattern and aerodrome-specific procedures are published in AIP New Zealand, with the applicable operating rules contained in Part 91.

The skills the student has acquired leading up to this lesson now combine into one continuous exercise, with the landing being the main new skill to be learned.

This briefing is based on a normal left-hand circuit, assuming nil wind or wind approximately straight down the runway. Aim to introduce the lesson under favourable conditions, with variations introduced progressively as the student gains experience.

Objectives

• To take off and follow published procedures that conform to the aerodrome traffic circuit, avoiding conflict with other aircraft.