Originally Posted by
Lantirn
are you allowed to lose contact with the runway environment (due to aircraft movement-and not due to external weather conditions) when maneuvering for the downwind?
My understanding (and training) within JAA -> EUOPS -> EASA IR is a
clear no for the
circle to land. That one needs to be "eyes on the airfield" at all times.
For a visual approach (approach procedure segment of IFR flight, to correct Iron Eagle above), OTOH it is perfectly legal. Navigate by visual means, understand the implications on (reduction of) ATC service provided and enjoy at own peril. VOR let-downs in CFU are a nice example.
The references for both have been already provided in the posts above, I guess.