The standard overhead join
- Overfly the aerodrome at 2000 ft above aerodrome elevation.
- If you don't already know it, determine the circuit direction from the signals square, other traffic or the windsock.
- Descend on the “dead side” to circuit height.
- Join by crossing the upwind end of the runway at circuit height, then position downwind.
Ways to join the circuit
Overhead join
The standard join where the procedure isn't otherwise notified: overfly at 2000 ft above aerodrome elevation, descend on the dead side, then cross the upwind end to position downwind.
Downwind join
Join directly onto the downwind leg at circuit height when advised/cleared, e.g. “join downwind runway 27”.
Base join
Join onto the base leg and turn final from there — when the traffic and controller allow it.
Crosswind join
Join on the crosswind leg (after the upwind end) to slot into the downwind leg.
Straight-in approach
Approach straight to the runway without flying the circuit, traffic permitting — report your range on final, e.g. “8 miles, straight-in approach runway 27”.
The join you use depends on the aerodrome, the traffic and the controller. At an ATC unit you're given joining instructions to read back; at an AGCS (“Radio”) field you choose, report your join and intentions, and make your own decisions.
Circuit instructions — orbit, land after, go-around
“… for spacing, orbit right”
“Orbit right, wilco, <callsign>” — a 360° turn to create spacing.
“… runway 27, land after the [traffic]”
“Runway 27, land after the [traffic], <callsign>” — you may land while the preceding aircraft is still on the runway, provided it will be clear, it's daylight, and you can see it. Read it back.
“… go around, I say again go around”
“Going around, <callsign>” — abandon the approach, climb away and rejoin.