Exiting Class D airspace
Posted: Thu May 19, 2022 12:09 pm
I want to be clear on the exit procedures for controlled airspace when flying VFR. If given specific tower instructions it is clear(er) but need some help when the tower instructions are not as specific.
The FAA procedures for exiting a controlled airspace indicate (if I understand them correctly) if given a "cleared to takeoff" without any heading or turn information is to fly straight out. A few questions.
1. Do you fly runway heading until you clear the airspace when not given a turn or heading in the takeoff clearance? If not when is it appropriate to turn towards your flight heading?
2. If on a left pattern runway you are given instructions cleared to takeoff left turn approved does that mean to turn left 45 degrees and exit the airspace on that heading (like you would at a non-controlled tower) or turn left 90 degrees like you are flying the crosswind pattern and then exit the pattern in the direction of your flight plan after the end of the crosswind leg?
3. If given a cleared for takeoff exit left downwind do you exit the downwind in the direction of your flight assuming the flight direction is not the same as the downwind heading or fly out the downwind until clear the airspace?
I want to be sure I am maneuvering correctly within the airspace. Thanks
The FAA procedures for exiting a controlled airspace indicate (if I understand them correctly) if given a "cleared to takeoff" without any heading or turn information is to fly straight out. A few questions.
1. Do you fly runway heading until you clear the airspace when not given a turn or heading in the takeoff clearance? If not when is it appropriate to turn towards your flight heading?
2. If on a left pattern runway you are given instructions cleared to takeoff left turn approved does that mean to turn left 45 degrees and exit the airspace on that heading (like you would at a non-controlled tower) or turn left 90 degrees like you are flying the crosswind pattern and then exit the pattern in the direction of your flight plan after the end of the crosswind leg?
3. If given a cleared for takeoff exit left downwind do you exit the downwind in the direction of your flight assuming the flight direction is not the same as the downwind heading or fly out the downwind until clear the airspace?
I want to be sure I am maneuvering correctly within the airspace. Thanks