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Airport operationsQuestion 204 of 934

A pilot stays in a left traffic pattern after takeoff. When should the pilot start the turn to the crosswind leg?

  1. As soon as the airplane leaves the ground and is climbing
  2. At 500 feet AGL, before reaching the departure end of the runway
  3. Beyond the departure end, within 300 feet of pattern altitude
  4. At the midpoint of the runway, after rotation
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Correct answer: Beyond the departure end, within 300 feet of pattern altitude

After takeoff, continue straight ahead. Then turn to crosswind beyond the departure end, within 300 feet of pattern altitude.

Source: Aeronautical Information Manual (FAA, Basic with Change 3, 9 July 2026), AIM 4-3-3 Traffic Patterns (FIG 4-3-2), page 241

Practice airport operations

Questions last reviewed: 18 October 2026