AC 90-66C - Non-Towered Airport Flight Operations

U.S. Department

of Transportation

Federal Aviation

Administration Advisory

Circular

Subject: Non-Towered Airport Flight

Operations Date: 6/6/23 AC No: 90-66C

Initiated by: AFS-800 Change:

1 PURPOSE OF THIS ADVISORY CIRCULAR (AC). This AC calls attention to

regulatory requirements, recommended operations, and communications procedures for

operating at an airport without a control tower or an airport with a control tower that operates only part time. It recommends traffic patterns, communications phraseology, and operational procedures for use by aircraft, lighter -than-air aircraft, gliders, parachutes,

rotorcraft, and ultral ight vehicles. This AC stresses safety as the primary objective in

these operations. This AC is related to Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations (14 CFR) part 1, § 1.1 (traffic pattern), and part 91 , § 91.13 ( C

areless or Reckless

Operation ), § 91.113 ( R ight -of-Way R ules: Except Water Operations ), and § 91.126

(Operating O n or In the V icinity of an Airpor t in Class G A irspace ). The contents of this

document do not have the force and effect of law and are not meant to bind the public in any way, and the document is intended only to provide information to the public

regarding existing requirements u nder the law or agency policies.

2 AUDI

ENCE. This AC applies to aircraft operators operating at or in the vicinity of an

airport without a control tower or an airport with a control tower that operates only part time.

3 WHERE YOU CAN FIND THIS AC. You can find this AC on the Federal Aviation

Administration’s (FAA) website at https://www.faa.gov/regulations_policies/advisory_cir

culars an d the Dynamic Regulatory System (DRS) at https://drs.faa.gov.

4 WHAT THIS AC CANCELS. AC 90 -66B CHG 1 , Non- Towered Airport Flight

Operations, dated February 25, 2019, is canceled .

5 PRINCIPAL CHANGES. This AC has been updated to reflect current procedures and

best practices at airpor ts without an operating control tower or an airport with a control

tower that operates only part time .

6 DEFINITIONS.

6.1 Back -Taxi. A term used by air traffic controllers to taxi an aircraft on the runway

opposite to the traffic flow. The aircraft may be instructed to back -taxi to the beginning

of the runway or at some point before reaching the runway end for the purpose of departure or to exit the runway.

6.2 Chart Supplements/ Terminal Procedures. A Chart Supplement is a publication

designed primarily as a pilot’s operational manual containing all airports , seaplane bases,

6/6/23 AC 90 -66C

2 and heliports open to the public, including communications data, navigational facilities,

and certain special notices and procedures. This publication is issued in seven volumes according to geographical area and the airport s’ information. See Airport Chart

Supplements in paragraph 7 below. Terminal procedures address av ailable instrument

approaches at an airport .

6.3 Common Traffic Advisory Frequency (CTAF). A frequency designed for the purpose

of carrying out airport advisory practices while operating to or from an airport without an operating control tower. The CTAF may be a Universal Communications (UNICOM), MULTICOM, Flight Service Station (FSS), or tower frequency, and is identified in appropriate aeronautical publications.

6.3.1 Universal Communications (UNICOM) Frequency . These systems offer a variety of

features, typically selectable by microphone clicks, on the UNICOM frequency. Availability will be published in the Chart Supplement U.S. and approach charts.

6.3.2 M

ULTICOM . A mobile service, not open to public correspondence use, used for

essential communications in the conduct of activities performed by or directed from private aircraft.

6.4 Hotline Complai nt. If the pilot experiences a threat to their safety during any flight

operation, they have the right to file an FAA Hotline compliant. The FAA Hotline accepts reports related to the safety of the National Airspace System (NAS), violation of

14 CFR , aviation safety issues, and reports related to FAA employees or FAA facilities.

The FAA Hotline provides a single venue for FAA employees, the aviation community, and the public to file their reports.

6.5 Movement Area . The runways, taxiways, and other areas of an airport/heliport that are

used for taxiing/hover taxiing, air taxiing, takeoff and landing of aircraft, exclusive of loading ramps, and parking areas.

6.6 Non-Towered Airports. Airports without control towers or airports with control towers

that are not operating. These airports are commonly referred to as non -towered or

part-time-towered airports. Another term commonly used is “uncontrolled airport.”

6.7 Traffic Pattern. The traffic flow that is prescribed for aircraft landing at, taxiing on, or

taking off from an airport.

7 RELATED READING MATERIAL .

1. Aeronautical Information Manual

(AIM).

2. Airplane Flying Handbook .

3. Airport Chart Supplements .

4. Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) at https://www.aopa.org/ .

5. FAA Aeronautical Chart User s’ Guide .

6/6/23 AC 90 -66C

3 6. FAA Hotline at https://www.faa.gov/a bout/office_org/headquarters_offices/aae/progr

ams_services/faa_hotlines .

7. Fly Neighborly Guide , Helicopter Association International.

8. Notices to Air Missions (NOTAM) at https://www.faa.gov/air_traffic/publications/not

ices/.

9. Operations at Non-Towered Airports, AOPA, Air Safety Institute pamphlet.

10. Pilot/Controller Glossary .

11. Pilot’s Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge (PHAK) (FAA -H-8083- 25B).

12. State Aviation Publications.

13. Terminal Procedures at https://www.faa.gov/air_traffic/flight_info/aeronav/digital_pr

oducts/dtpp/search/ .

14. United States Parachute Association at http s://uspa.org/ .

15. United States Ultralight Association at https://www.usua.org .

16. Various Pilot Guides.

7.1 ACs. The current editions of the following ACs also contain information applicable to

operations at airports without ope rating control towers .

1. AC 90-23 , Aircraft Wake Turbulence.

2. AC 90-48 , Pilots’ Role in Collision Avoidance.

3. AC 91-32 , Safety In and Around Helicopters.

4. AC 103-6 , Ultralight Vehicle Operations —Airports, Air Traffic Control, and

Weather.

5. AC 105-2 , Sport Parachuting.

6. AC 107-2 , Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (Small UAS).

8 BACKGROUND AND SCOPE.

8.1 In the interest of promoting safety, the FAA, through its AIM, Chart Supplements, ACs,

and other publications, provides radio frequency information, good operating practices, and procedures for pilots to use when operating at an airport without an operating control tower. The FAA believes that observance of a standard traffic pattern and the use of CTAF procedures, as detailed in this AC , will improve the safety and efficiency of

aeronautical operations at airports without operating control towers.

8.2 Regulatory provisions relating to traffic patterns are found in 14 CFR parts 91, 93

,

and 97. The airport traffic patterns described in part 93 relate primarily to those airports

where there is a need for unique traffic pattern procedures not provided for in part 91. Part 97 addresses instrument approach procedures (IAP). At airports without operating control towers, part 91 requires only that pilots of airplanes approaching to land make all

turns to the left, unless the a irport’s Chart Supplement or the airport’s segmented circle

6/6/23 AC 90 -66C

4 indicates a different traffic pattern flow. Refer to the PHAK, Chapter 14, Airport

Operations, and the AIM, Chapter 4, Section 3, Airport Operations).

8.2.1 The FAA does not regulate traffic pattern entry, only traffic pattern flow. This means that

when entering the traffic pattern at an airport without an operating control tower, inbound pilots are expected to observe other aircraft already in the pattern and to conform to the

traffic pattern in use. If there are no other aircraft present, the pilot should check traffic indicators on the ground and wind indicators to determine which runway and traffic pattern direction to use. For exa mple, an aircraft on an instrument approach flying on the

final approach course to land would follow the requirements dictated by the approach procedure . Further, to mitigate the risk of a midair collision at a non -towered airport in

other than instrument conditions, the FAA does not recommend that the pilot execute a straight-in approach for landing , when there are other aircraft in the traffic pattern . The

straight- in approach may cause a conflict with aircraft in the traffic patter n and on base to

final and increase the risk of a midair collision.

8.2.1.1 Traffic pattern entry and turn direction information is provided by using the airport remarks or Chart Supplement, or by referring to the AIM and the

PHAK or this AC. An aircraft in the tr affic pattern of an airport is considered

an aircraft approaching to land at the airport. At an airport without a control tower, the pilot must fly the traffic pattern with left turns, unless otherwise stated in the Airport Chart Supplement, or as stated on the visual flight rules (VFR ) Chart symbol for the respective airport. (Refer to § 91.126(b) , the note

below, and example.) That is, unless otherwise stated, all traffic pattern turns are to the left unless the airport designates that traffic pattern tur ns be made to

the right.

Note: An aircraft outside the traffic pattern would not be bound by

§ 91.126(b) (see paragraph 11.3 and Appendix A , Traffic Patterns,

for

aircraft crossing over midfield above pattern altitude to enter the pattern). Unless otherwise required by part 93, or authorized or required by ATC, the r equirements for traffic pa ttern flow under

§ 91.126 continue to apply to other airspa ce classification types under

§ 91.127 (Class E airspace), § 91.129 (Class D airspace), and §

(Class C airspace) . This is particularly likely when a towered airport is

operating as a non -towered airport.

Note: F rom the VFR Sectional Chart, a n on-towered airport will

indicate a right -traffic p attern with “RP” in the airport information on

the sectional, which indicates that a right- traffic pattern is used at this

airport. Runways requiring the use of the right pattern are listed after the RP. An example would be RP 32, meaning that a right pattern is in

use on Runway 32 (see Figure 1, Sample VFR Sectional Chart With

RP 32, below). If an RP is not noted, it is assumed that the traffic pattern is a left pattern.

6/6/23 AC 90 -66C

5 Figure 1. Sample VFR Sectional Chart With RP 32

GENERAL OPERATING PRACTICES.

9.1 Preflight Actions. As part of the § 91.103 preflight requirements that a pilot become

familiar with all available information conc erning a flight, each pilot should review all

appropriate publications (e.g., Chart Supplements, the AIM, and NOTAMs) for pertinent

information on current traffic patterns at the d eparture and arrival airports. The Chart

Supplement U.S. contains information such as special notices, FAA and National Weather Service (NWS) telephone numbers, preferred instrument flight rules (IFR) routing, VFR waypoints, a listing omni- directional range receiver checkpoints,

aeronautical chart bulletins, land- and-hold-short operations (LAHSO), airport diagrams,

en route flight advisory service (EFAS) outlets, parachute jumping areas, the airport’s facility telephone numbers, and at non- towered air ports, how to operate the

pilot-controlled runway lights. It is beneficial to review a Chart Supplement U.S. to become familiar with this information.

9.2 Fly the Standard Traffic Pattern. A

rriving aircraft should enter the airport’s traffic

pattern at traffic pattern altitude and avoid straight-in approaches for landing to mitigate

the ris k of a midair collision. See the paragraphs below and paragraph 11 for additional

information.

9.3 Information Provided by UNICOM. UNICOM stations may, upon request, provide pi

lots with weather information, wind direction, the recommended runway, or other

necessary information. If the UNICOM frequency is designated as the CTAF, it will be identified in appropriate aeronautical publications. If wind and weather information is not

available, it may be obtainable from nearby airports via the Automatic Terminal

Information Service (ATIS) or Automated Weather Observing System (AWOS). UNICOM operators are not required to communicate with pilots, and if they do, there are no standards for the information conveyed.

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6 9.4 Airport Runway L ighting . Refer to the airport’s Chart Supplement to determine

whether the runway lighting is controlled by the airport’s CTAF frequency. This can be a

significant aid to identify your destination airport, as well as the runway in use.

9.5 Prior to Takeoff, VFR or IFR, Traffic Verification , and Communications.

Communication at non-towered airports or at airports where the control tower is closed is

critical. Pilots are reminded that in these cases surveillance of other traffic by the air traffic controller is removed from the safety picture; hence, you are assuming this role. All traffic, whether IFR or VFR, should, at a minimum, monitor the CTAF. For departures a minimum of 10 minutes prior to taxi and arrivals a minimum of 10 miles out from the airport, you should broadcast your intentions. The importance of a ir-to-air

communications cannot be overemphasized. Failure to follow this communication protocol has contributed to near midair collisions (NMAC), and as such could be considered careless and reckless operation of an aircraft.

Note: If ATC issues a “departure release,” this is not an authorization to take off.

The pilot should communicate over the airport ’s CTAF their call sig n, the runway

they will use to takeoff, their departure direction, and initial climb altitude;

coordinate their takeoff with other aircraft inbound and with aircraft in the tr affic

pattern before taking off to mitigate the risk of a surface or a mid air collision. If

the departing aircraft has a clearance void time, and cannot safely takeoff, then they should contact ATC and advise that they need to obtain another clearance void time.

9.5.1 V

FR . The pilot should not enter the runway in use for takeoff unles s they verify that there

is no landing traffic either opposite to their runway for takeoff or aligned with their runway for takeoff . The pilot should also ensure that, by entering the runway, they do not

cause a traffic conflict with operations on any othe r runway .

9.5.2 IFR. T

he pilot should consider the same factors as when flying VFR described in

paragraph 9.5.1. However, remember that the air traffic control (ATC ) IFR release is not

authorization for takeoff.

Note: C rews/pilot should monitor the CTAF for any inbound traffic and

coordinate their departure.

9.5.3 P re -Takeoff Communications. On the airport’s CTAF, you should communicate and

coordinate your takeoff intention with aircraft inbound and in the traffic pattern and announce the runway to be used, the direction of flight on departure, or whether you intend to remain in the traffic pattern . This action will reduce the risk of a surface or

midair collision during takeoff. Also, coordinate the takeoff with other traffic in the traffic pattern, traffic inbound for landing, or traffic on a straight-in approach to any of the airport's runways.

9.6 M

ULTICOM Frequencies. Where there is no tower, CTAF, or UNICOM station

depicted for an airport on an aeronautical chart, use MULTICOM frequency 122.9 for

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7 self-announce procedures. Such airports should be identified in appropriate aeronautical

information publications.

9.7 Be Alert for Other T han a Left -Hand Traffic Pattern . If the Chart Supplement lists a

right -hand traffic pattern at a non -towered airport, pilots conducting practice instrument

approaches in visual meteorological conditions ( VMC ) should circle to the right to enter

the traffic pattern .

9.8 Self-Announce Position and/or Intentions. “Self -announce” is a procedure whereby

pilots broadcast their aircraft call sign, position, altitude, and intended flight activity or

ground operation on the designated CTAF. This procedure is used almost exclusively at airports that do not have an operative control tower or an FSS on the airport. If an airport

has a control tower that is either temporarily closed or operated on a part-time basis, and there is no operating FSS on the airport, pilots should use the published CTAF to self-announce position and/or intentions when entering within 10 miles of the airport.

9.8.1 S

elf -Announcing. Self -announcing should include aircraft type to aid in identification

and detection, but should not use paint schemes or color descriptions to replace the use of the aircraft call sign. For example, “MIDWEST TRAFFIC, TWIN COMMANDER FIVE

ONE ROMEO FOXTROT TEN MILES NORTHEAST” or “MIDWEST TRAFFIC, FIVE ONE ROMEO FOXTROT TWIN COMMANDER TEN MILES NORTHEAST .”

When referring to a specific runway, pilots should use the runway number and not use the phrase “Active Runway.” To help identify one airport from another when sharing the same frequency, the airport name should be spoken at the beginning and end of each self-announce transmission.

Note: R

efer to AIM, Chapter 4, Section 1. Pilots are re minded that the use of the

phrase “ANY TRAFFIC IN THE AREA, PLEASE ADVISE” is not a recognized self-announce position and/or intention phrase and should not be used under any

condition. Any traffic that is present at the time of your self -announcement that is

capable of radio communications should reply without being prompted to do so.

9.9 Left Traffic. Use of standard traffic patterns (left turns) for all aircraft and CTAF

procedures by radio-equipped aircraft are required at all airports without operating control towers unless indicated otherwise by visual markings, light gun signals, airport

publications, or published approach procedure. A pilot should understand that other traffic patterns (right turns) may already be in common use at some airports or that special circumstances or conditions exist that may prevent use of the standard traffic

pattern. Right- hand patterns are noted at airports on an aeronautical chart with an “RP”

designator and the applicable runway next to the airport symbol. See paragraph 11 for

detailed information.

9.10 C ollision Avoidance. The pilot in command’s (PIC) primary responsibility is to see and

avoid other aircraft and to help other aircraft see and avoid his or her aircraft. You should keep lights and strobes on. The use of any traffic pattern procedure does not alter the responsibility of each pilot to see and avoid other aircraft. Pilots are encouraged to participate in “Operation Lights On,” a voluntary pilot safety program described in the

6/6/23 AC 90 -66C

8 AIM (paragr aph 4-3-23) that is designed to improve the “see- and-avoid” capabilities.

Refer to AC 90 -48 for additional information.

9.10.1 U nmanned Aircraft (UA) . UA, commonly known as drones, and their associated

operating systems can operate as recreational, commercial, or public aircraft.

Recreational, commercial , and public drones generally do not require authorization to

operate in Class G airspace, nor are UA required to maintain radio communications with

other aircraft. The remote PIC must always yie ld right -of-way to a manned aircraft and

not interfere wi th manned aircraft operations. The FAA encourages remote PICs to use

caution when operating in and around the vicinity of airports because their aircraft may be difficult to see or be recognized by p ilots of manned aircraft. Additional information

regarding unmanned aircraft operations may be found in AC 107-2 and 14 CFR part 107.

Note: According to part 107, § 107.41, operators of small UA are required to

obtain ATC authorization prior to operating in Class B, C, D, and surface Class E

airspaces.

9.11 T raffic Flow. The FAA recommend s that pilots use visual indicators, such as the

segmented circle, wind direction indicator, landing direction indicator, and traffic pattern indicators that provide traffic pattern information. If other traffic is present in the pattern, arriving or departing aircraft should use the same runway as these aircraft. Transient aircraft may not know local ground references, so pilots should use standard pattern phraseology, including distances from the airport.

9.11.1 S

traight- In Landings . The FAA discourages VFR straight -in approaches to landings due

to increased risk of a mid air collision. However, if a pilot chooses to execute a straight -in

approach for landing without entering the airport traffic pattern, the pilot should self-announce their position on the designated CTAF between 8 and approximately

10 miles from the airport , and coordinate their straight-in approach and landing with

other airport traffic. Pilots choosing to execute a straight-in approach do not have a particular priority over other a ircraft in the traffic pattern and must comply with the

provisions of § 91.113(g).

Note: S

ection 91.113(b) requires all pilots to see and avoid. Refer to AC 90 -48

for further guidance on reducing the risk of a midair collision.

9.11.2 A ircraft O perating in the Traffic Pattern at a Non-T owered Airport . All traffic within a

10-mile radius of a non‑towered airport , or a part‑time -towered airport when the control

tower is not operating, should monitor and communicate on the designated CTAF when

entering the traffic pattern . Pilots must remain vigilant to comply with the requirement to

see and avoid other aircraft (refer to § 91.113), which could include aircraft conducting

straight-in approaches to land, and should communicate their position in the pattern with

other aircraft in the traffic pattern to avoid a possible traffic conflict. In the airport traffic

pattern, good communication and a pilot’s responsibility to see and avoid are essential

mitigations to avoid a possible midair collision. In addition, following establis hed traffic

pattern procedures eliminates excessive maneuvering at low altitudes , reducing the risk of

loss of aircraft control. The following is a n example of traffic p attern position reporting:

6/6/23 AC 90 -66C

9 state, “Entering l eft/right downwind for runway [XX];” when on the downwind, state ,

“On the left/right downwind for runway [XX];” when on base leg, state, “On left/right

base for runway [XX];” finally , when turning , state, “On final for runway [XX].”

Note: Most importantly, all pilots operating at a non -towered airport have the

responsibility to see and avoid under § 91.113(b). Refer to AC 90 -48 for further

guidance on reducing t he risk of a midair collision .

9.11.3 I FR Traffic . Pilots conducting instrument approac hes in VMC should be particularly alert

for other aircraft in the pattern so as to avoid interrupting the flow of traffic and should bear in mind they do not have priority over other VFR traffic. Pilots are reminded that circling approaches must comply with § 91.126(b) unless the approach procedure

explicitly states otherwise. Remember, if the Chart Supplement lists right- hand traffic at a

non-towered airport, pilots conducting practice instrument approaches in VMC should circle to the right to enter the tr affic pattern.

9.11.4 Practice Instrument Approaches at Non -

Towered Airports ver sus VFR Aircraft in the

Traffic Pattern . Pilots conducting instrument approaches at non- towered airports should

be alert for other aircraft in the pattern, and should follow these best practices :

9.11.4.1 A nnounce and Coordinate for Safety. Announce their distance from the

runway aligned with the instrument approach being flown, and their intention to land, conduct a touch -and-go, fly the published missed approach, or at the

missed approach point break off the instrument approach.

9.11.4.2 Communicate to A void the Risk of a M idair C ollision. To avoid the risk of

a midair collision, communicate with the pilots already in the traffic pattern and advise them of your intentions, and determine the safety of flying the published missed approach, or conducting a touch and go or a full stop landing. Per coordination with the other aircraft already in the traffic pattern, safety may be best served by breaking off the approach and entering the airport’s downwind leg to not disturb the current flow of landing and

departing aircraft.

9.11.4.3 If Not Planning to F ly the P ublished M issed A pproach , Communicate. If

not planning to fly the published missed approach, communicate your over CTAF your intentions to aircraft on the a irport’s CTAF . For example, “ Cessna

N1234 on VOR 6 not flying the published missed approach, turning [state direction] for another approach [ state, leaving the area].” This will reduce the

risk of a midair collision with aircraft in the traffic pattern and inbound to the airport for landing.

9.11.5 C

onsider That Non-Instrument-R ated Pilots May Not Understand.

A non-instrument-rated pilot might not understand radio calls referring to approach waypoints, depicted headings, or missed approach procedures. IFR pilots often indicate that they are on a particular approach, but that may not be enough information for a non-IFR-rated pilot to know your location. It is better to provide s pecific direction and

6/6/23 AC 90 -66C

10 distance from the airport, as well as the pilot’s intentions upon completion of the

approach. For example, instead of saying, “PROCEDURE TURN INBOUND V-O- R

APPROACH 36,” state, “6 MILES SOUTH INBOUND V-O- R APPROACH

RUNWAY 36, PLANNING TURNING (right or left) TO AVOID FLYING OVER THE AIRPORT, or state, “6 MILES SOUTH INBOUND V-O- R APPROACH RUNWAY 36,

LANDING FULL STOP.” You should be clear and concise. The other traffic needs to

know what to expect in order to take appropriate actions t hat avoid a midair collision.

9.12 Other Considerations at Non- Towered Airports.

9.12.1 F

light Inspection Aircraft . Pilots should be aware that flight inspection aircraft may be

operating near the airport, in a nonstandard traffic pattern or opposite direction to conduct inspection of navigational aids. In addition, flight inspection aircraft frequently conduct

low approaches over the runway. F light inspection aircraft use the call sign “flight check”

and will self -announce their position and intentions on the designated frequency. Pilots

should be vigilant when they hear “flight check ” on the frequency.

9.12.2 No-Rad

io Aircraft . Pilots should be aware that procedures at airports without operating

control towers generally do not require the use of two-way radios; therefore, pilots should be especially vigilant for other aircraft while operating in the traffic pattern. Pilots of inbound aircraft that are not capable of radio communications should determine the runway in use prior to entering the traffic pattern by observing the landing direction indicator, the wind indicator, landing and departing traffic, previously referring to relevant airport publications, or by other means.

9.12.3 Turbulence Generated by Aircraft .

9.12.3.1 Wake Turbulence. A phenomenon that occurs when an aircraft develops l ift

and forms a pair of counter- rotating vortices. All aircraft generate wake

turbulence. Therefore, pilots should be prepared to encounter turbulence while operating in a traffic pattern and especially when in the trail of other aircraft.

Wake turbulence can damage aircraft components and equipment. In flight, and especially when in a traffic pattern, avoid the area below and behind the aircraft generating turbulence, especially at a low altitude where even a momentary wake encounter could be hazardous.

Note: All operators should be aware of the potential of wake

turbulence when operating at any airport. Since the turbulence from a “dirty ,” flaps and landing gear extended, aircraft configuration hastens

wake decay, the greatest vortex strength occurs when the generating aircraft is “ HEAVY, ” “CLEAN, ” and “ SLOW. ” Be alert to the wake

turbulence you could be generating to smaller aircraft.

9.12.3.2 Rotor Wash. A phenomenon resulting from the vertical down wash of air generated by the main rotor(s) of a helicopter .

9.12.3.3 Propelle r (Prop) Wash (Prop Blast). A disturbed mass of air generated by

the motion of a propeller.

6/6/23 AC 90 -66C

11 9.12.3.4 Jet Blast. Force of the “a ir” from the rear section of the jet engine. Almost

half of the jet blast incidents reported to the Aviation Safety Reporting System

(ASRS ) occurred on taxiways, in run-up areas, and adjacent to or on runways,

all relatively uncongested airport areas. The other half o ccurred on ramps,

where many more such incidents might be expected because of close aircraft

parking and tight maneuvering conditions. You should give yourself ample distance behind a jet. For e xample, in one case, a small aircraft performing a

run-up 150 feet behind and to the side of an airliner holding short of the

runway experienced a wing and prop strike when the larger aircraft powered up. Re fer to the FAA ASR S Ground Jet Blast Hazard.

9.12.4 Right -of-Way . Throughout the traffic pattern, right-of- way rules a pply as stated in

§ 91.113: “When weather conditions permit, regardless of whether an operation is conducted under instrument flight rules or visual flight rules, vigilance shall be maintained by each person operating an aircraft so as to see and avoid other aircraft. When a rule of this section gives another aircraft the right- of-way, the pilot shall give

way to that aircraft and may not pass over, under, or ahead of it unless well clear.”

9.12.5 O

ther Approaches to Land and Airports with Multiple Runways. Pilots should be aware

of the other types of approaches to land that may be used at an airport when a pilot indicates they are doing so, which may or may not be initiated from the traffic pattern. The more common types of these include a short approach, low approach, or an overhead approach. Also, at a irports with multiple r unways, to reduce the risk of a collision on

takeoff or arrival, you should be vigilant and scan for operations on other runways that

may conflict with your operation. Some airports do not provide a clear line of sight to other runways, diminishing a pilot’s situational awareness during departures. You should be alert and aware of tower/aircraft communications , and identify what runway or

runways are being used for takeoff and landing. If operating at a towered airport with

crossing runways, and you are in doubt if the other aircraft’s takeoff runway will conflict with your takeoff, you should contact the tower to confirm if your takeoff runway will not conflict with another aircraft taking o ff. If at a non -towered airport, you should use

the CTAF and ask the other departing aircraft which runway they are departing from or landing on to avoid the risk of a takeoff or landing collision with another aircraft.

9.12.5.1 A Short A pproach . A short approach i s executed when the pilot makes an

abbreviated downwind, base, and final legs turning inside of the standard 90-degree base turn. This can be requested at a towered airport for

aircraft spacing, but is more commonly used at a non- towered airport or a

part-time-towered airport when the control tower is not operating, when

landing with a simulated engine out or completing a power-off 180- degree

accuracy approach commercial -rating maneuver.

9.12.5.2 A Low A pproach. A low approach is executed when an aircraft intends to

overfly the runway, maintaining runway heading but not landing. Aircraft flying practice instrument approaches commonly use this .

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12 9.12.5.3 An O verhead A pproach. An overhead approach is normally performed by

aerobatic or high- performance aircraft and involves a quick 180- degree turn

and descent at the approach end of the runway before turning to land

(described in the AIM, P aragraph 5 -4-27, Overhead Approach Maneuver).

9.13 Pilot Responsibility to See and Avoid and P ilot Avoiding Car eless and Reckless

Operations (§ 91.13). In the airport traffic pattern, effective communication and a pilot’s

responsibility to see and avoid are essential mitigations to avoid a possible midair collision. In addition, following established traffic pattern procedures eliminates

excessive maneuvering at low altitudes wh ich mitigate the risk of a loss -of-aircraft

control. All aircraft in the pattern or those flying a straight -in approach for landing in

order to mitigate the risk of a conflic t should effectively communicate their type of

aircraft, distance from the runway in use, and state that they will or will not land on the runway in use. It is important to remember that non- adherence to established procedures

and operations in the airport traffic pattern or on the surface of the airport that could

endanger the life or property of another and could expose the pilot to an investigation

based upon their careless or reckless operation.

10 COMMUNICATIONS PROCEDURES. The following information is in tended to

supplement the AIM, P aragraph 4 -1-9, Traffic Advisory Practices at Airports Without

Operating Control Towers.

10.1 Recommended Communication Practices . To achieve the greatest degree of safety, it is

essential that a ll radio -equipped aircraft transmit/receive on a common frequency

identified for the purpose of airport advisories , as identified in appropriate aeronautical

publications.

1. Pilots should only use the co rrect airport name, as identified in appropriate

aeronautical publications, when s elf-announcing or exchanging traffic information to

reduce the risk of confusion. For example , when landing at Midwest National Airport

(KGPH), state, “Midwest National Traffic” as stated on the VFR aeronautical chart

and as found in the Airport’s Suppleme ntal Chart information. Do not use the town’s

name “Mosby Traffic” or “Clay County Traffic. ”

2. To help identify one airport from another, the correct airport name should be spoken at the beginning and end of each self -announce transmission.

3. Pilots should cla rify the intentions of another pilot if they do not fully understand the

other pilot’s inten tions.

4. Pilots should limit communications on CTAF s to safety -essential information

regarding arrivals, departures, traffic flow, takeoffs, and landings. The CTAF should not be used for personal conversations.

5. Pilots operating in the traffic pattern or on a straight- in approach must be alert at all

times to other aircraft in the pattern, or conducting straight -in approaches, and should

communicate their position to av oid a possible traffic conflict. In the airport traffic

pattern and while on straight -in approaches to a runway, good communication and a

pilot’s responsibility to see -and-avoid are essential mitigations to avoid a possible

6/6/23 AC 90 -66C

13 midair collision. In addition, f ollowing established traffic pattern procedures

eliminates excessive maneuvering at low altitudes, reducing the ri sk of loss of aircraft

control.

Note: Pilots should not broadcast their assumed sequence for landing when

transmitting their position in the pattern . For example, “N1234 downwind,

number 3 for landing.” This is the responsibility of ATC at towered airports.

10.2 Unnecessary Communications . Avoid unnecessary CTAF communications. Keep in

mind that while you are communicating, you may block transmissions from other aircraft

that may be departing or landing in the opposite direction to your aircraft due to IFR operations, noise abatement, obstacle avoidance, or runway length requirements. An aircraft might be using a runway different from the runway in use.

10.3 Avoid Confusing Language . Avoid confusing language that could attribute to the risk of

a midair collision. To avoid misunderstandings, pilots should avoid using the words “to” and “for” whenever possible. These words might be confused with runway numbers or altitudes. Be specific and clear so that other pilots in the pattern are not confused as to the runway or procedure you intend to use to ensure you and the ot her pilots are clear as to

each other’s positions within the traffic pattern to mitigate the possibility of a midair collision.

10.4 Recommended Traffic Advisory Practices.

10.4.1 A

rriving Aircraft . Approximately 10 miles from the destination airport, monitor the

CTAF for other traffic and self-announce your position, altitude, and intention. Also, a ll

traffic within a 10 -mile radius of a non-towered airport or a part- time-towered airport

when the control tower is not operating should monitor and communicate their inte ntions

on the designated CTAF as they approach to enter the traffic pattern to avoid a traffic

conflict . For IFR -arriving aircraft, in addition to communicating with ATC, the pilot/ crew

is advised to monitor the airport’s CTAF to obtain traffic volume.

10.4.2 Depa rting A ircraft . Unless otherwise stated in the Airport Chart Supplement for the

airport reference to departure procedures, d eparting aircraft should monitor/communicate

on the appropriate CTAF from sta rtup, during taxi, and after departure, so to be aware of

any inbound aircraft that could present a traffic conflict .

Note: A t non- towered airports , the FAA discourages back -taxi operations because

they increase the risk of a surface collision with landing aircraf t. Remember, at

towered airports, ATC authorizes a back -taxi and provides collision avoidance for

this operation.

10.4.3 I FR Departure. Unless otherwise stated in the Airport Chart Supplement for the airport

reference to IFR departure procedures, d eparting aircraft should monitor/communicate on

the appropriate CT AF from startup and during taxi so that they are aware of arrival

aircraft landing at the airport . To mitigate a surface or midair collision, departing aircraft

should communicate on the CTAF prior to entering the runway environment so not to

create a coll ision hazard. This requires the departing aircraft to “see- and-avoid” any

6/6/23 AC 90 -66C

14 aircraft that may be on short final prior to entering the runway for takeoff and

communicate their intentions, their departure runway, initial departure altitude, and direction of fl ight, and monitor CTAF until they are in contact with ATC.

Note 1: When r eceiving an IFR clearance release to enter airspace from ATC,

with or without a clearance void time , you should not takeoff at a non-towered

airport until you are positive that there is no inbound aircraft/traffic pattern conflicts. If your takeoff is going to be delayed, contact and advise ATC.

Note 2: Caution should be taken when receiving IFR clearances on the ground

from a Remote Transmitter Receiver (RTR) or a Remote Communications Out let

(RCO), as these can limit your situational awareness of other aircraft that may be

entering the traffic area for landing while you are not monitoring the

CTAF/UNICOM.

10.4.4 I

mmediate IFR Departure. Pilots departing IFR are encouraged not to accept immediate

IFR departures just to meet clearance void time s as this increases the risk of a collision

hazard on the runway when they conduct an immediate departure and another aircraft

could be on short final, entering the runway from another location, or may be crossing the runway in use. As stated above, an ATC IFR clearance and ATC stating released are not

authorizations to takeoff. Per paragraph 10.4.3, communicate on CTAF, announce your inten tion to takeoff; state the runway in use , initial departure altitude, and direction of

flight; and call for any aircraft in the pattern or inbound to the airport for landing to obtain a complete understanding of all air traffic to be avoided.

11 RE

COMMENDED STANDARD TRAFFIC PATTERN. The following information is

intended to supplement the AIM, P aragraph 4 -3-3, Traffic Patterns, and the PHAK,

Chapter 14. Further, during preflight planning, you should check the Chart Supplement information for the airport of destination and in addition to obtaining airport information,

check for any airport remarks and /or special procedures. This information can alert you to

takeoff, landing, or other procedures, and ensure you are familiar with all available information regarding that airport.

11.1 Traffic Pattern Design. Airport owners and operators, in coordination with the FAA, are

responsible for establishing traffic patterns. The FAA encourages airport owners and operators to establish traffic patterns as recommended in this AC. Further, left traffic patterns should be established, except where obstacles, terrain, and noise- sensitive areas

dictate otherwise (see Appendix A).

11.2 Determination of Traffic Pattern. Prior to entering the traffic pattern at an airport

without an operating control tower, aircraft should avoid the flow of traff ic until

established on the entry leg. For example, the pilot can check wind and landing direction indicators while at an altitude above the traffic pattern, or by monitoring the communications of other traffic that communicate the runway in use, especiall y at

airports with more than one runway. When the runway in use and proper traffic pattern direction have been determined, the pilot should then proceed to a point well clear of the pattern before descending to and entering at pattern altitude.

6/6/23 AC 90 -66C

15 11.3 Traffic Pattern Entry. Arriving aircraft should be at traffic pattern altitude and allow for

sufficient time to view the entire traffic pattern before entering. Entries into traffic

patterns while descending may create collision hazards and should be avoided. Entry to the downwind leg should be at a 45-degree angle abeam the midpoint of the runway to be used for landing. Aircraft should always enter the pattern at pattern altitude, especially when flying over midfield and entering the downwind directly. See Appendi ces A, B,

Glider Operations, and C , Parachute Operations, for additional traffic pattern entry

details.

11.4 D escent and Base Turn. The traffic pattern altitude should be maintained until the

aircraft is at least abeam the approach end of the landing runway on the downwind leg. The base leg turn should commence when the aircraft is at a point approximately 45 degrees relative bearing from the approach end of the runway.

11.5 Runway Preference. Landing and takeoff should be accomplished on the operating

runway most nearly aligned into the wind. However, if a secondary runway is used (e.g., for length limitations), pilots using the secondary runway should avoid the flow of

traffic to the runway most nearly aligned into the wind.

11.6 Takeoff and Go- Around. Airplanes on takeoff , or executing a go -around, should

continue straight ahead until beyond the departure end of the runway, and the pilot

maintaining awareness of other traffic so as not to conflict with th ose established in the

pattern.

11.7 Turning Crosswind. Airplanes remaining in the traffic pattern should not commence a

turn to the crosswind leg until beyond the departure end of the runway and within 300 feet below traffic pattern altitude. Pilots should make the turn to downwind leg at the traffic pattern altitude.

Note: Pilots should be aware that the crosswind leg may be longer or shorter due

to weather conditions that are unusually hot or cold.

11.8 Take off and Departing the Airport Pattern ( the Departure Leg) . When departing the

traffic pattern, airplanes should continue straight out or exit with a 45- degree left turn

(right turn for right traffic pattern) beyond the departure end of the runway after reaching pattern altitude. Pilots need to be aware of any traffic entering the traffic pattern prior to commencing a turn.

11.9 Airspeed Limitations. Airplanes should be operated in accordance with their pilot’s

operating handbook (POH)/Aircraft F light Manual (AFM ) landing procedures.

11.10 Landing Right -of-Way. Section 91.113 provides the right- of-way when landing. The

section states in relevant part , “Vigilance shall be maintained by each person operating an

aircraft so as to see and avoid other aircraft …When two or more aircraft are approaching

an airport for the purpose of landing, the aircraft at the lower altitude has the right -of-way, but it shall not take advantage of this rule to cut in front of another which is

on final approach to land or to overtake that aircr aft.”

6/6/23 AC 90 -66C

16 12 OTHER NON -TOWERED AIRPORT AIRCRAFT TRAFFIC PATTERNS.

Non-towered airport operators routinely establish local procedures for the operation of

rotorcraft, gliders, ultralight vehicles, lighter -than-air aircraft, and parachute operations.

See Appendi ces A for t raffic patterns ; B for g lider operations, rotorcraft, ultralight

vehicles, and lighter- than-air aircraft; and C for parachute operations, which provides

details and recommended standard traffic patterns for these operations.

12.1 Rotorcraft.

12.1.1 In the case of a helicopter approaching to land other than on the runway in use, the pilot

should avoid the flow of fixed-wing aircraft and land on a marked helipad or suitable clear area. Pilots should be aware that at some airports, the only suitable landing area is the runway, and a standard traffic pattern can be utilized if it does not conflict with any other fixed -wing traffic present at the time of landing.

12.1.2 All pilots should be aware that rotorcraft may fly slower and approach at steeper angles than airplanes. Air taxi is the preferred method for helicopter ground movements, which enables the pilot to proceed at an optimum airspeed, minimize downwash effect, and conserve fuel. Flight over aircraft, vehicles, and personnel should be avoided.

12.1.3 In the case of a gyroplane approaching to land, the gyroplane pilot operating in the traffic pattern when landing on the runway may fly a pattern similar to the fixed- wing aircra ft

traffic pattern but at a lower altitude (500 feet above ground level ( AGL )) and closer to

the runway. This runway pattern may be on the opposite side of the runway from fixed -wing traffic only when airspeed requires it or for practice power-off landings and if

local policy permits. Landings not on the runway should avoid the flow of fixed -wing

traffic.

12.1.4 Helicopters operating in the traffic pattern when landing on the runway may fly a pattern similar to the fixed -wing aircraft traffic pattern but at a lowe r altitude (500 feet AGL) and

closer to the runway. This runway pattern may be on the opposite side of the runway from fixed -wing traffic only when airspeed requires it or for practice power-off landings

(autorotation) and if local policy permits. Landings not on the runway should avoid the flow of fixed -wing traffic.

12.1.5 Both classes of rotorcraft can be expected to practice power -off landings (autorotation),

which will involve a very steep angle of approach and high rate of descent (1,500 to 2,000 feet/minute ).

12.2 Gliders.

12.2.1 A glider, including the tow aircraft during towing operations, has the right-of- way over

powered aircraft.

12.2.2 If both airplanes and gliders use the same runway, the glider traffic pattern will be inside the pattern of engine- driven aircraft. If a glider operating area is established to one side of

a powered -aircraft runway, the glider pattern will normally be on the side of the airport

closest to the glider operating area. This will allow gliders to fly the same direction

6/6/23 AC 90 -66C

17 traffic pattern as powered aircraft in certain wind conditions and necessitate a separate,

opposing direction traffic pattern in other wind conditions. (See examples in

Appendix B .)

12.2.3 Typically, glider traffic patterns have entry points (initial points) from 600 to 1,000 feet AGL.

12.3 Ultralight Vehicles.

12.3.1 In accordance with 14 CFR part 103

, ultralight vehicles are required to yield the

right -of-way to all aircraft.

12.3.2 Ultraligh t vehicles should fly the rectangular pattern as described in Appendix B . Pattern

altitude should be 500 feet below and inside the standard pattern established for the airport. An ultralight pattern with its own dedicated landing area will typically have a

lower traffic pattern parallel to the standard pattern, with turns in the opposite direction.

12.3.3 All pilots should be aware that ultralights will fly significantly slower than airplanes. Ultralights may also exhibit very steep takeoff and approach angles. Tu rns may be

executed near the end of the runway in order to clear the area expediently.

12.4 Lighter-Than- Air Aircraft.

12.4.1 A balloon has the right- of-way over any other category of aircraft and does not follow a

standard traffic pattern.

12.4.2 Due to limited maneuverability, airships do not normally fly a standard traffic pattern. However, if a standard traffic pattern is flown, it will be at an airspeed below most other aircraft.

12.5 Parachute Operations.

12.5.1 All activities are normally conducted under a NOTAM noting the locatio n, altitudes, and

time or duration of jump operations. The Chart Supplement lists airports where permanent Drop Zones (DZ) are located.

12.5.2 Jumpers normally exit the aircraft either above, or well upwind of, the airport and at altitudes well above traffic pattern altitude. Parachutes are normally deployed between 2,000 feet and 5,000 feet AGL and can be expected to be below 3,000 feet AGL within 1 mile of the airport within the probable chute operating zone, or within 2 miles in extreme zone ( see Appendix C). Pilots of jump aircraft are required by 14 CFR part 105

to establish two -way radio communications with the ATC facility that has jurisdiction

over the affected airspace prior to jump operations for the purpose of receiving information in the aircraft about known air traffic in the vicinity. In addition, when jump aircraft are operating at or in the vicinity of an airport, pilots are also encour aged to

provide advisory information on the CTAF. For example, “Chambersburg traffic, jumpers away over Chambersburg.”

6/6/23 AC 90 -66C

18 12.5.3 When a DZ has been established at an airport, parachutists are expected to land within the

DZ. At airports that have not established DZs, parachutists should avoid landing on runways, taxiways, aprons, and their associated safety areas. Pilots and parachutists should both be aware of the limited flight performance of parachutes and take steps to avoid any potential conflicts between aircraf t and parachute operations. Appendix C

provides dimensions of a parachute operation’s DZ , and an example of an airport’s Chart

Supplement information for parachute operations.

13 AC FEEDBACK FORM. For your convenience, the AC Feedback Form is the last page

of this AC. Note any deficiencies found, clarifications needed, or suggested improvements regarding the contents of this AC on the Feedback Form.

W

esley L. Mooty

Acting Deputy Executive Director, Flight Standards Service

6/6/23 AC 90 -66C

Appendix A

A-1 APPENDIX A. TRAFFIC PATTERNS

Components of a Traffic Pattern (Refer to AIM Chapter 4 )

Note

: This diagram is intended only to illustrate terminology used in identifying various

components of a traffic pattern. It should not be used as a reference or guide on how to enter a

traffic pattern.

1. Upwind leg. A flight path parallel to the landing runway in the direction of landing. Note : The

upwind leg is separate and distinct from the departure leg and often used to reference the flight path flown after takeoff (or a touch and go).

2. Crosswind leg. A flight path at right angle s to the landing runway off its end.

3. Downwind leg. A flight path parallel to the landing runway in the opposite direction of

landing.

4. Base leg. A flight path at right angles to the landing runway off its approach end. The base leg

extends from the downwind leg to the intersection of the extended runway centerline.

5. Final approach. A flight path in the direction of landing along the extended runway

centerline from the base leg to the runway.

6. Departure— Departing the airport’s traffic area. The flight path which begins after takeoff

and continues straight ahead along the extended runway centerline. Note : The departure climb

continues until reaching a point at least 1/2 mile beyond the departure end of the runway and

within 300 feet of the traffic pattern altitude, and the aircraft continues on its direction of flight away from the airport.

Note: Aircraft should always enter the pattern at pattern altitude published for the

respective airport. A midfield crossing alternate pattern entry should not be used when the pattern is congested.

Note: Descending into the traffic pattern can be dangerous, as one aircraft could descend

on top of another aircraft that is already in the pattern. All similar types of aircraft,

including those entering on the 45-degree angle to downwind, should be at the same pattern altitude so that it is easier to visually acquire any traffic in the pattern.

6/6/23 AC 90 -66C

Appendix A

A-2 Single Runway (Diagram from the AIM , Paragraph 4 -3-3)

T

raffic pattern operations —single runway ( PHAK )

6/6/23 AC 90 -66C

Appendix A

A-3 EXAMPLE−

Key to traffic pattern operations:

1. Enter pattern in level flight, abeam the midpoint of the runway, at pattern altitude.

2. Maintain pattern altitude until abeam approach end of the landing runway on

downwind leg, begin descent and turn base at approximately 45 degrees from the intended landing point.

3. Complete turn to final at least ¼ mile from the runway.

4. Continue straight ahead until beyond departure end of runw ay.

5. If remaining in the traffic pattern, commence turn to crosswind leg beyond the departure end of the runway within 300 feet of pattern altitude.

6. If departing the traffic pattern, continue straight out, or exit with a 45-degree turn (to the left when in a left -hand traffic patter n; to the right when in a right- hand traffic

pattern) beyond the departure end of the runway, after reaching pattern altitude.

Parallel Runways (Diagram from the AIM, Paragraph 4-3-3)

6/6/23 AC 90 -66C

Appendix A

A-4 Traffic P attern O peration —Parallel Runways ( PHAK)

E

XAMPLE−

Key to traffic pattern operations:

1. Enter pattern in level flight, abeam the midpoint of the runway, at pattern altitude.

2. Maintain pattern altitude until abeam approach end of the landing runway on

downwind leg, begin descent and turn base at approximately 45 degrees from the intended landing point.

3. Complete turn to final at least ¼ mile from the runway.

4. Continue straight ahead until beyond departure end of runway.

5. If remaining in the traffic pattern, commence turn to crosswind leg beyond the

departure end of the runway within 300 feet of pattern altitude.

6. If departing the traffic pattern, continue straight out, or exit with a 45-degree turn (to the left when in a left- hand traffic pattern; to the right when in a right- hand traffic

pattern) beyond the departure end of the runway, after reaching pattern altitude.

7. Do not overshoot final or continue on a track which will penetrate the final approach

of the parallel runway.

8. Do not continue on a track which will penetrate the departure path of th e parallel

runway.

6/6/23 AC 90 -66C

Appendix A

A-5 Alternate method to the 45 degree to the downwind leg . Preferred entry from upwind leg side

of airport (A). Alternate midfield entry from upwind leg side of airport (B). Refer to the Airplane

Flying Handbook, Chapter 7.

Note: Aircraft should always enter the pattern at pattern altitude, especially when

flying over midfield and entering the downwind directly.

Traf

fic Pattern Altitudes. Refer to the Airplane Flying Handbook, Ch apter 7, and the AIM ,

paragraph 4-3-3. Enter pattern in level flight, abeam the midpoint of the runway, at pattern

altitude. The traffic pattern altitude is usually, unless otherwise established for a respective

airport, 1,000 feet above the elevation of the airport surface. The use of a common altitude at a

given airport is the key factor in minimizing the risk of collis ions at airports without operating

control towers. A pilot may vary the size of the traffic pattern de pending on the aircraft’s

performance characteristics.

Unless a specific traffic pattern altitude is published in the Chart Supplement entry for the

airport, it is recommended that:

1. Propeller -Dri ven Aircraft . Propeller -driven aircraft enter the traffic pattern at

1,000 feet above the airport surface ( above ground level ( AGL )).

2. Turbine-Powered Airplanes. Larg e and turbine- powered airplanes enter the traffic

pattern at an altitude of not less than 1,500 feet above the airport elevation, or 500 feet above the established pattern altitude.

6/6/23 AC 90 -66C

Appendix A

A-6 3. U ltralight Aircraft. An ultralight aircraft should operate no higher than 500 feet below

the powered aircraft pattern altitude. A pilot may vary the size of the traffic pattern

depending on the aircraft’s performance characteristics.

4. Helicopter O p erations . The AIM , Chapter 4, Section 3, Airport Operations, states in

part, “Pilots approaching to land in a helicopter must avoid the flow of fixed- wing

traffic. ” Though neither the AIM nor 14 CFR do provide traffic pattern operations for

helicopters, the FAA highly recommends that helicopter pilots operating in the traffic

pattern may fly a pattern similar to the airplane pattern at a lower altitude (500 AGL)

and closer to the airport. This pattern may be on the opposite side of the runway with turns in the opposite direction if local policy permits.

6/6/23 AC 90 -66C

Appendix B

B-1 APPENDIX B. GLIDER OPERATIONS

Sample Glider Operations and Ultralight Aircraft Pattern

Per

AC 103-6, Ultralight Vehicle Operations —Air ports, Air Traffic Control, and Weather, in all

radio communications, ultralight operators sh ould state the word “ultralight” followed by the call

letters. Finally, once you have completed your landing or have exited the area, it is good practice

to let other aviators know that you are no longer airborne in the vicinity of the airport. For

examp le, state, “Leesburg, Ultralight 12593U is clear of the Runway” or “Leesburg, Ultralight

12593U is 2 Miles South, Leaving the Area .”

6/6/23 AC 90 -66C

Appendix B

B-2 Sample Glider Aircraft Pattern

C

heck the respective airport’s C hart Supplement for specific information regarding glider

operations. The example above is from Shirley , New York’s Brookhaven Airport (KHWV).

Glider ops dalgt (daylight) hrs. Pilots be aware when conducting practice ILS apchs

(approaches) , extensive lgt acft (light aircraft) training on and invof arpt (in the vi cinity airports)

all hrs. Gliders use rgt tfc pat (right traffic pattern) for Rwy 24 and Rwy 33, gliders use left

tfc pat (left traffic pattern) for Rwy 06 and Rwy 15. No TGL wkend, hol (weekend, holiday,)

and non dalgt (daylight) hrs.

6/6/23 AC 90 -66C

Appendix C

C-1 APPENDIX C. PARACHUTE OPERATIONS

Per United States Parachute Association Drop Zone (DZ) dimensions

Ex

ample of non- towered airport Chart Supplement information: Parachute Jumping. Extensive

parachute jumping activity invof arpt. (Per Chart Supplement l egend , “invof” means “in the

vicinity of ”, and “arpt” means “airport .”)

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If you find an error in this AC, have recommendations for improving it, or have suggestions for

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Commercial Division at 9-AFS-800-Correspondence@faa.gov or the Flight Standards

Directives Management Officer at 9-AWA-AFB-120-Directives@faa.gov .

Subject: AC 90-66C, Non-Towered Airport Flight Operations

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