B1104 FLIGHT 1.0 hours simulator

VFR Military Pattern and Communications

OBJECTIVE

Enable trainees to proficiently perform Visual Flight Rules (VFR) military traffic patterns in a virtual simulator, emphasizing overhead approaches, high-speed maneuvers, and precise communications for safe operations.

CONTENT

Military Pattern Structure

  • • Overhead pattern: Initial straight-in at 1,500-2,000 ft AGL and 300 knots, followed by 180° break turn to downwind at 1,000-1,500 ft AGL.
  • • Legs: Downwind (abeam perch point), perch (begin descent turn), final (roller or full-stop).

MILITARY OVERHEAD PATTERN

Initial (300 kts) → Break → Downwind → Perch → Final

PATTERN PARAMETERS

Initial Altitude: 1,500-2,000 ft AGL
Initial Speed: 300 KIAS
Pattern Altitude: 1,000-1,500 ft AGL
Break: 180° level turn

Communications Protocols

  • • Tower contact: Report "Initial."
  • • Intra-flight: Brevity for formation (e.g., "Break," "Perch"); position calls like "Downwind" or "Final gear down."

EXAMPLE INITIAL CALL

"Eagle 1, initial."

Maneuver Execution

  • • Break turn: G-loaded to establish spacing; reduce power on downwind, configure gear/flaps.
  • • Touch-and-go/full-stop: Power management for climbout; practice 3-5 circuits.

Error Handling and Safety

  • • Go-arounds for misalignment; collision avoidance with see-and-avoid.
  • • Wave-off procedures when directed by tower or flight lead.

COMPLETION STANDARDS

Trainees will independently fly military VFR patterns in the simulator. Trainees must:

  • • Complete at least five patterns with correct communications
  • • Maintain tolerances (±500 ft altitude, ±20 knots airspeed during break)
  • • Handle one wave-off correctly

Completion: Demonstrate proficiency with instructor sign-off

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