Hello all,
Thanks for all you replies so far, some useful thoughts there! Hadn't thought about the Bull issue!
The more technical method, also taught by the military (low key, high key, etc) is to pick a field nearly below and follow one of several specific procedures to fly a circuit into it. That's great if you are good and current and practiced, and has the advantage that you are better placed to survey it for obstacles etc, but I think most PPLs will not make such a good job of it when under pressure.
In response to IO540 and the military "technical method" ref hi key/Low Key, "ARF" etc; this is indeed the way which I am taught. I admit that the theory of it sounds complicated, but it seems to make sense to aim for a set point in the field and then work your circuit in accordance with landing near that point
A and C, I like your point ref Rule 5 and totally see your point. When I quizzed my QFI on Rule 5 during the briefing, he implied that it was a rather grey area with PFLs. maybe as long as you are not over a person, structure, vehicle (Ostrich?!?) PFLs are OK. Will see when he tells me to go-around!
The actual physicality of the circuit seems to me pretty much like the glide circuit on an airfield - am I right?! My lunchtime reading this week is PFLs and hope to fly them for the first time on Friday...
Don't know what other flying clubs/schools do, but speaking personally, my QFI and I do spend time discussing why the engine could fail and how to try and prevent the engine from stopping... carb icing, FEEL cx etc...its just that we are usually doing so when in the Mess or clubhouse!
GQ