A different ATC question: What approach for uncontrolled airports

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1

Hi everyone (fairly new to flight simming)

I often fly to remote or uncontrolled airports (so no formal approach pattern) and am unsure how ATC figures out its vectors to the runway.

I’ve read and experienced the ATC issues others raise on the forum, so my question is: What should my approach look like so I don’t have to be vectored by ATC? That way I can at least fly something proper myself.

Is there a generic way of approaching runways, like mentioned here: https://www.skybrary.aero/index.php/Uncontrolled_Aerodromes_-_Procedures

Thanks in advance, and happy flying.

2

If the field has an ATIS/AWOS, you can look up the frequency, dial it into COM2 and listen to the report. The wind direction would give you an idea of which runway to use, and presumably inform your arrival to the field as well as the approach.

3

Great, thanks. The link above has this diagram: image

So I can find the wind direction from the ATIS and then join the circuit per the diagram (cross the runway from the upwind side → downwind leg → base leg → land)?

4

Yes, although you’ll find AI traffic (if enabled) will totally disregard those rules. Fortunately, object collision for mid-airs is not enabled yet. :sunglasses:

5

Thanks, this helps a lot! Yes that is good. They can do random things sometimes.

6

The circuit at uncontrolled airfields is 1000 ft above elevation. Circuits are usually left hand turns but you should check the airport info for exceptions.

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7

If no ATIS/AWOS available, you look out for the windsock while overflying midfield.
Of course check the METAR and TAF (if available) or the weather forecast prior departure so you can already plan ahead for the most likely conditions :slight_smile:
Without ATIS/AWOS, the choice for the correct runway on uncontrolled airfields is basically up to you.

Also check out this video where Jayne and Forder are training the procedures for uncontrolled airfields:

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8

Great video, thanks! Will check the others out, too.
Would be nice to have something like a condensed version of this in MSFS itself.

9

I would join overhead above 2000 feet agl then descend on the dead side to 1000 feet agl and complete a left hand circuit unless airfield information/charts say to the contrary. In MSFS, I dont bother to check charts for uncontrolled airfields.

10

The usual entry is 45 degree into downwind.

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11

While I do think there should be some reference from the sim to these lessons, I don’t think condensing them is the right way to learn things.
The slides can be downloaded, but they don’t show the full picture, so watching people learning is a much better resource.

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12

Hello,

if you waant be as real (everytime best option) you can for first study specific airport chart. There are also regional charts for these airports which define also circuit altitude (1000ft isn’t standard) and of course traffic patterns and other regulations. I expect your country has also AIS web page where real charts and also VFR airports charts can be available, also without any access restrictions. I like our Slovak and also Czech web pages for real flying where all can be accessible.

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13

Thanks, that’s a great tip. I’m based in NZ but use NeoFly a lot so often flying to remote locations.

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