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Airport operationsQuestion 205 of 934

A pilot leaves a left-hand traffic pattern with a 45 degree turn. In which direction, and when?

  1. To the right, before the departure end of the runway, at 500 feet AGL
  2. To the left, at the midpoint of the runway
  3. To the right, after climbing 1,000 feet above pattern altitude, over the runway
  4. To the left, beyond the departure end, after reaching pattern altitude
Show answer

Correct answer: To the left, beyond the departure end, after reaching pattern altitude

In a left pattern, exit with a 45 degree left turn beyond the departure end, at 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