i was asked to join ‘left downwind’ in a right hand circuit the other day. Does ‘left downwind’ just mean, downwind? ................Does anyone else find this confusing?
Not confusing at all - it was utter rubbish! You had your wits about you and queried things. You then, I presume, got on with it in the proper way. From the phrasing as you quote it, it doesn't sound like a qualified ATC to me by the way. Remember a qualified controller is never in charge of your aeroplane and never wants to be. So, never let your guard down because we all make mistakes, ATC no less.