FAA Military Competency Practice Exam

How should a pilot approach to land at an airport without a control tower in Class G airspace?

1. Make all turns to the right

2. Make all turns to the left unless otherwise indicated

3. Fly a straight-in approach

4. Adjust speed upon entering the airspace

The correct answer is: Make all turns to the left unless otherwise indicated

When approaching to land at an airport without a control tower in Class G airspace, the standard procedure is to make all turns to the left unless otherwise indicated. This practice is rooted in the principles of aviation safety and standardization, aimed at enhancing predictability for pilots operating in uncontrolled airspace. Making left turns is typically the norm for traffic patterns at many airports, which helps maintain a consistent flow of traffic. This consistency is especially crucial in uncontrolled environments where pilots must maintain situational awareness and avoid potential conflicts with other aircraft. By adhering to this convention, pilots can anticipate the actions of other aircraft in the vicinity, reducing the likelihood of mid-air collisions. While options such as flying a straight-in approach or adjusting speed are part of good airmanship, they do not address the critical aspect of maintaining predictable maneuvers that facilitate safety in shared airspace. Making all turns to the left contributes to a more organized approach to landing, allowing pilots to effectively visualize the actions of other aircraft and make informed decisions.