PilotEdge Forums

Hi everyone. I have a question about departing Class D airports. Whilst I’m familiar with Australian procedures, I’m not sure if FAA is different. I understand that at uncontrolled airports, it is recommended to depart upwind, or on a 45 degree crosswind. I’ve read the AIM but couldn’t find any specific advise for a Class D where you basically just follow the controller’s instructions.

I’ve come across the following scenario a couple times. Departing heading 090 from runway 36 with a left pattern, the controller states ‘East departure approved’. Are you expected to fly upwind till above pattern alt then turn right, fly upwind crosswind and downwind departing from midfield (270 degree turn in total), or simply make a right turn against the pattern direction to set course?

Thanks, Michael.

Michael, the last one. Simply make a right turn against the pattern direction to set course. Make your right turn at the same altitude you would typically do a crosswind turn to the left (terrain allowing). I typically turn at 500 agl. Some choose 400. The AIM states that crosswind turns are required within 300 ft of pattern altitude. Get turned off of runway heading by then (well below pattern altitude) to allow for potential faster departures behind you to depart.

Thanks Rod, appreciate the quick reply. I'm always a little hesitant turning against the pattern at low altitude unless I'm sure its allowed, so that's good to know.