FAA Military Competency Practice Exam

What should a helicopter pilot do when landing at an airport without a control tower in Class G airspace?

1. Mix with fixed-wing aircraft in the traffic pattern

2. Choose to fly higher than the standard altitude

3. Maintain separation from the flow of fixed-wing aircraft

4. Utilize the same approach path as fixed-wing aircraft

The correct answer is: Maintain separation from the flow of fixed-wing aircraft

When landing at an airport without a control tower in Class G airspace, it's important for a helicopter pilot to maintain separation from the flow of fixed-wing aircraft. This is crucial because the absence of air traffic control means that pilots rely on their own knowledge of traffic patterns and visual cues to ensure safety. Helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft have different performance characteristics, and the helicopter's ability to hover or operate at lower altitudes can present unique challenges in maintaining an orderly flow of air traffic. By focusing on maintaining separation, the helicopter pilot can manage the risks associated with potential conflicts with other aircraft, especially since fixed-wing aircraft may be following standard patterns that do not accommodate helicopter operations. This proactive approach helps to ensure safety and prevent collisions or near misses, particularly in the vertical dimension where helicopters may operate at different altitudes compared to airplanes. For context on the other options, mixing with fixed-wing aircraft in the traffic pattern could lead to unsafe situations, while flying at higher-than-standard altitudes might not necessarily aid in maintaining separation. Utilizing the same approach path as fixed-wing aircraft can also increase the risk of conflict, as it does not account for the helicopter's unique operational capabilities and requirements for safe landing.