How should the aircraft be positioned on the downwind leg following the break?

How should the aircraft be positioned on the downwind leg following the break?

• A. Align with the runway heading only
• B. Wings level and on the extended centerline
• C. Low altitude and fast speed
• D. Configured for landing with flaps down

Answer: (B)

After executing the break maneuver, the aircraft should be established on the downwind leg with wings level and aligned with the extended centerline of the runway. This positioning allows for a clear sight of the runway, enabling the pilot to make necessary adjustments in altitude and airspeed as they prepare for the landing phase. Being on the extended centerline is crucial because it ensures that the aircraft remains lined up with the runway as it approaches for landing, providing a visual reference for more accurate positioning. Maintaining wings level ensures stability and helps the pilot assess the distance and alignment in relation to the runway. The other options do not provide the correct configuration for a safe and effective downwind leg. Aligning only with the runway heading does not take into account the need to maintain proper spacing and alignment with the extended centerline. Flying at a low altitude and fast speed could lead to reduced control and inadequate reaction time. Lastly, being configured for landing with flaps down is typically performed later in the approach, rather than immediately following the break, as this may disrupt the required speed and handling characteristics for establishing a safe downwind leg.

After executing the break maneuver, the aircraft should be established on the downwind leg with wings level and aligned with the extended centerline of the runway. This positioning allows for a clear sight of the runway, enabling the pilot to make necessary adjustments in altitude and airspeed as they prepare for the landing phase.

Being on the extended centerline is crucial because it ensures that the aircraft remains lined up with the runway as it approaches for landing, providing a visual reference for more accurate positioning. Maintaining wings level ensures stability and helps the pilot assess the distance and alignment in relation to the runway.

The other options do not provide the correct configuration for a safe and effective downwind leg. Aligning only with the runway heading does not take into account the need to maintain proper spacing and alignment with the extended centerline. Flying at a low altitude and fast speed could lead to reduced control and inadequate reaction time. Lastly, being configured for landing with flaps down is typically performed later in the approach, rather than immediately following the break, as this may disrupt the required speed and handling characteristics for establishing a safe downwind leg.