If you join overhead and descend deadside you will join crosswind over the upwind numbers.
Anyone joining on the crosswind leg of the circuit is in a very dangerous position.
OK - So what is the difference ? apart from a descending 360 degree turn to get to the same position ?
If you join overhead or go straight to crosswind at cct height you will get to exactly the same place. I can see that if you have not positively identified the airfield and ensured that you are at the right place prior to entering the crosswind then that is a problem but if you know the airport and are spot on with your positioning, radio call, speed and lookout then getting rid of a 360 degree descending turn in a potentially busy circuit must be more efficient and safer ?
