📘14 CFR §91.126 – Operations at Airports in Class G Airspace
🚩 Overview
Pilots operating in Class G (uncontrolled) airspace must follow standardized procedures to ensure safety, collision avoidance, and smooth traffic flow.
✅ Key Operational Requirements
🛫 1. Direction of Turns
When approaching for landing at an airport without an operating control tower:
Make all turns to the left, unless airport markings or publications specifically indicate right-hand traffic.
🛬 2. Communications
While not required by regulation, pilots should communicate their intentions clearly on the designated Common Traffic Advisory Frequency (CTAF) to enhance safety and situational awareness.
🚦 3. Safe Operation
Pilots must operate their aircraft safely and avoid collision hazards.
Pilots are responsible for seeing and avoiding other aircraft.
🛩️ Example Scenario
You're approaching an uncontrolled airport in Class G airspace. Check the Chart Supplement or visual indicators for traffic pattern direction. If not specified, default to standard left-hand traffic, clearly announce your position and intentions over CTAF, and remain alert for other aircraft.
📌 CFI Pro Tips
Effective Radio Use: Train students on clear, concise radio communication techniques, especially when operating at non-towered airports.
Visual Scanning and Pattern Entry: Emphasize good visual scanning, proper pattern entry procedures, and proactive collision avoidance.
📚 Further Reading and Official References
14 CFR §91.126 (Full FAA Regulation): https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-14/chapter-I/subchapter-F/part-91/subpart-B/section-91.126
FAA Aeronautical Information Manual (AIM) - Airport Operations: https://www.faa.gov/air_traffic/publications/atpubs/aim_html/chap4_section_3.html
FAA Advisory Circular AC 90-66B (Non-Towered Airport Operations): https://www.faa.gov/documentLibrary/media/Advisory_Circular/AC_90-66B.pdf
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