Originally Posted by
Local Variation
Obviously circuit orbiting should be an initial turn away from the runway, which flies in the face of this, but the general gist is sound.
Originally Posted by
TheOddOne
...which makes it so highly dangerous and to be avoided at all costs.
Once, approaching from the south for RW09 (Left Hand circuit) I was told by ATC to report right base for 09. Fine by me, saves time. The trouble then came when ATC asked if I could see the circuit traffic on left base - "Negative" (it was a bit hazy). So I was asked to orbit right (over a town at 800ft). Coming out of that, same question and same answer, whereupon a different voice from the other aircraft (obviously the instructor) said "I suggest CD does another orbit". ATC agreed, so round again... My wife in the RH seat was now getting a very good close up view of the houses. I have been a bit cautious ever since about non standard joins!