By the end of this session, you should be able to:
- Identify the basic legs of a rectangular traffic pattern.
- Use power and flap changes to manage descent and approach speed.
- Fly a stabilized final approach and complete a controlled landing.
Instructor-Led Flight Series • F.4
Traffic Pattern & Landing
Focus question: How can a pilot use a consistent traffic pattern to create a stable final approach and landing?
Lesson Overview
Learning Targets
Instructor Setup
- Use a familiar airport with a clear runway and visual conditions.
- Use light wind for early attempts.
- Start on the runway or shortly after takeoff so the student can complete multiple pattern attempts.
30-Minute Plan
Session Timeline
0–5 min
Pattern briefing
Review upwind, crosswind, downwind, base, final, flap use, approach stabilization, touchdown, and rollout.
5–10 min
Instructor demonstration
Demonstrate one complete traffic pattern while narrating power, flap, pitch, and visual references.
10–23 min
Student pattern
Student flies a complete pattern and landing. Reset quickly for another attempt if time permits.
23–27 min
Landing refinement
Repeat final approach or a second pattern with emphasis on stabilized airspeed and runway alignment.
27–30 min
Debrief
Discuss approach stability, flare timing, centerline control, and rollout.
Student Mission
Flight Tasks
- Fly a rectangular traffic pattern using clear heading changes.
- Reduce power and configure the aircraft gradually on downwind/base.
- Establish a stable final approach aligned with the runway.
- Use small pitch and power corrections rather than large late inputs.
- Touch down under control and maintain directional control during rollout.
Completion Check
Ready to Move On?
- Recognizes each traffic-pattern leg.
- Uses flaps and power changes in a controlled sequence.
- Maintains runway alignment on final.
- Completes landing and braking without abrupt control inputs.
Instructor decision: Repeat, practice during Free Flight, or continue to the next instructor-led lesson.
Guide basis: The SR7x verification checklist includes normal approaches with and without flaps, landings, approach/landing rollout, and braking operation.