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pattern altitude (normally 1,500 feet AGL.) However, if large or turbine aircraft operate at your airport, it is best to remain 2,000 feet AGL so you are not in conflict with their traffic pattern. When well clear of the pattern—approximately 2 miles–scan carefully for traffic, descend to pattern altitude, then turn right to enter at 45° to the downwind leg at midfield. [Figure 14-2] 

An alternate method is to enter on a midfield crosswind at pattern altitude, carefully scan for traffic, announce your intentions, and then turn downwind. [Figure 14-3]  This technique should not be used if the pattern is busy. Always remember to give way to aircraft on the preferred 45° entry and to aircraft already established on downwind. 

In either case, it is vital to announce your intentions, and remember to scan outside. Before joining the downwind leg, adjust your course or speed to blend into the traffic. Adjust power on the downwind leg, or sooner, to fit into the flow of traffic. Avoid flying too fast or too slow. Speeds recommended by the airplane manufacturer should be used. They will generally fall between 70 to 80 knots for fixed-gear singles and 80 to 90 knots for high-performance retractable. 

## Sources for Airport Data 

When a pilot flies into a different airport, it is important to review the current data for that airport. This data provides the 

pilot with information, such as communication frequencies, services available, closed runways, or airport construction. Three common sources of information are: 

• Aeronautical Charts 

• Chart Supplement U.S. (formerly Airport/Facility Directory) 

• Notices to Airmen (NOTAMs) 

• Automated Terminal Information Service (ATIS) 

## Aeronautical Charts 

Aeronautical charts provide specific information on airports. Chapter 16, “Navigation,” contains an excerpt from an aeronautical chart and an aeronautical chart legend, which provides guidance on interpreting the information on the chart. 

## Chart Supplement U.S. (formerly Airport/Facility Directory) 

The Chart Supplement U.S. (formerly Airport/Facility Directory) provides the most comprehensive information on a given airport. It contains information on airports, heliports, and seaplane bases that are open to the public. The Chart Supplement U.S. is published in seven books, which are organized by regions and are revised every 56 days. The Chart Supplement U.S. is also available digitally at www. 

