Approach Question

[paulkinm]

Hi guys,

I was wondering if you could help me clear something up. When ATC give the aircraft the command, make left/right of the runway, what exactly does this mean? Does it mean that the aircraft makes left of the active runway?

Thanks in advance!

[NeoDude]

I think it is telling the aircraft on which side to vacate the runway. Probably wrong though

[paulkinm]

Sorry, I didn't explain properly, what I meant to say was when the aircraft is coming towards the airport just before the final approach. I have heard on a couple of occasions that the aircraft must make left/right of the active.

[HEATHROW DIRECTOR]

I think it would help to know which airfield you are referring to as this is not a "known" expression. Some grass airfields lay out runways markers to the left or right of the usual position if muddy conditions exist. Do you mean this? I know of no instance where an aircraft approaching a proper runway would be given such an instruction..??

[paddyboy]

Judging from the location I'd say the poster has been tuning into Staplefords A/G.

If so, this ties in with HD's post.

[120.4]

I don't know if it still does but Biggin Hill used to have a parallel grass runway on both sides of the main runway 21/03. When VERY busy, as it often was in those days, traffic would often be cleared to land "21 grass left" or "21 grass right".

Could be that.

Point 4

[foghorn]

Originally Posted by 120.4

Biggin Hill used to have a parallel grass runway

It's been gone quite a while now.

[Sa341]

Stapleford also has parrell runways - 04L and 04R and 22L and 22R. They normally use 22L...

[BOAC]

Could also be hearing 'Vacate Right' as 'Make Right'? Doh! These cheapo scanners