Naturally with an increased number of aircraft in the circuit the circuit becomes wider. The saftey issue of keeping the circuit tight has been around since the days of operating the tiger moth - lets move on! Modern engines dont just stop instantly and produce zero thrust - unless through fuel starvation. As the engine is failing it will cough and splutter and produce some thrust - allowing you to reach the field. A standard profile/speed circuit is a safer option - if it wasn't then why have airlines all over the world addopted this approach?? Does GA know better!! About the argument of increased flying training costs - using a standard cirucit allows a better appreciation of a standard profile, which leads to a more stable approach, and has been found to be easier for the student (especially when learning the landing phase) - which leads to reduced time to first solo! Lets ask a student whether a rushed, tight and variable circuit is easier?
