Does anyone know of an online/downloadable program that will calculate the directions of the turns for any runway traffic pattern? (Crosswind, Downwind, Base and Final) I think it would be a handy little program and, yes, I have searched for one and cannot find one! Any information would be welcome…Thanks,
Steve in Kansas
Probably because it’s a simple mental maths thing, just add or subtract 90, 180 & 270 to the runway heading depending on circuit direction and you have your headings.
One of simplest tricks I was taught was to set the heading bug on the compass (or CDI in glass cockpits) to the runway heading. Then I can quickly refer to it and put it to my 12, 9, 3 and 6 o’clock positions while banking in the circuit and minimize overshoots.
Second to what CasualClick suggested, I would bug the runway heading, and then turn in 90 degree increments depending on direction of the pattern.
If you are looking for visual reference, LittleNavMap (Freeware) has the ability to add the traffic pattern to the moving map.
Indeed, using your heading indicator is the best way. Especially if it has some heading bug or a course arrow. They also normally have fixed marks every 90º.
If you do not have a heading indicator but just a whiskey compass:
Take 2 first digits and do some math
+2,-2 or -2,+2
090: 0+2=2, 9-2=7, opposite to 090 is 270
360: 0-2=1, 6+2=8, opposite to 360 is 180
you -2 or +2 that the sum is no bugger than 3 and is positive.
163: 1+2=3, 6-2=4, the opposite to 163 is 343
Visual Traffic Pattern is an IOS app that gives all the headings using the runway number and traffic pattern. And it has a wind effect for the dialed in runway on the “reverse” side. Best of all it is FREE! I use it whenever I fly VFR and highly recommend it.
Actually the app is now $1.99
Keep in mind your pattern headings, distances, and timing need to take wind into account.