The USAF Landing Pattern

CHAPTER 2

AIR FORCE T-38 TRACK INTERMEDIATES

AGSM; your G-tolerance will build over time. Being in the best possible shape sets you up for

the most success when pulling the "big Gs."

209.

THE USAF LANDING PATTERN

a. Description. The USAF landing pattern is the standard VFR pattern for the USAF.

It is commonly referred to as the overhead pattern and closed pattern.

b. General. The USAF landing pattern will be flown in the no-flap configuration due to

NATOPS restrictions on flap retraction altitude and the potential to overspeed the flaps.

c. Gear Clear. In order to prepare you for USAF advanced training, pilots will inform

the other crewmember of intended gear actuation by stating "gear clear" prior to raising or

lowering the gear. After stating "gear clear," the pilot will hesitate momentarily prior to

actuating the gear. The IP will respond "clear" if gear restrictions are met.

210.

OVERHEAD PATTERN

a. Description. A landing pattern entered from initial.

b. General. This procedure outlines the standard entry to a USAF pattern.

c. Procedures

(1) After determining the active (duty) runway, maneuver to a point approximately

two miles from the approach end of the runway 170 KIAS, 1000 feet AGL or specified pattern

altitude. Use no more than a 45-degree intercept to initial to clear for traffic. Make your initial

call, "Duke Tower, Knight Two, 2 mile initial."

(2) If in formation, use a Crossunder as necessary to place your Wingman outside

the break. Plan to break between the approach end of the runway and 3000 feet down the

runway. With clearance to break from the tower, give the pitchout signal, and reduce power to

idle and roll into angle of bank (usually around 80-90 degrees) as required to attain

approximately WTD on downwind. Maintain pattern altitude and use G to bleed off airspeed.

The Wingman will wait five seconds and break using the same procedures.

(a) If winds are overshooting, move your downwind spacing away from the

runway. If winds are undershooting, adjust your downwind spacing toward the runway. Set a

drift-kill heading to maintain a ground track that parallels the runway.

(b) Interval: For touch-and-go's, the preceding aircraft must be abeam your

position. For a full stop, do not initiate break until preceding aircraft is 45 degrees behind your

position.

airspeed). Abeam the desired touchdown point lower gear and start the Landing Checklist.

(d)

Add power to approximately 650 ft-lbs to maintain 120 KIAS until the

perch.

2-10 T-38 PRECISION AEROBATICS