FAA Ground School Practice Test

When should you expect to use right traffic patterns according to specific airport operations?

1. During high wind conditions

2. Only for small aircraft

3. For runway changes

4. As indicated for Runway 35

The correct answer is: As indicated for Runway 35

Using right traffic patterns is essential for maintaining safe and predictable operations at an airport, particularly when it is specified for a particular runway. In this case, if the traffic pattern for Runway 35 is designated as a right traffic pattern, pilots are required to enter and exit the pattern to the right, meaning that they will make their turns to the right during climbs, descents, and landing approaches. This specific instruction helps integrate the traffic into the airport environment more safely, taking into account existing air traffic routes, geographical constraints, and other operational considerations. Because the rules of the traffic pattern are designed to standardize operations, adherence to the established pattern—specifically when details such as 'right traffic for Runway 35' are given—is crucial for efficiency and safety. Therefore, whenever an airport's operations manual or air traffic control instructions indicate a right traffic pattern for a particular runway, it is to be followed closely to ensure compliance with standard operating procedures and to maintain the safety of all aircraft in the vicinity. Other options may refer to conditions or aircraft types where right traffic patterns could be relevant, but they do not apply universally as the specified instruction for a particular runway does.