The Circuit

Question 1

Initial Point (IP)

Answer 1

This is the place at which the circuit should be joined. The ideal altitude to join the circuit
is 1000 feet AGL.

Question 2

Downwind (Leg)

Answer 2

On the downwind leg, you fly parallel to where you will be landing (but in the opposite
direction of when you will land). Your airspeed will be 50 mph.

You will complete your downwind check (or you may have done it immediately prior to
entering the circuit). Finally, you will make your radio call. Radio calls are discussed in
the next section.

Question 3

Abeam

Answer 3

This is the point in your circuit where you are directly across from the spot you will be
landing.

Question 4

Base Turn

Answer 4

Your instructor will teach you how to judge the correct position for your base turn. The
base turn is a 90° turn that aligns the glider with the base leg of the circuit. Normally, you
will begin your base turn at an altitude that allows you to finish the turn at an altitude not
lower than 500 feet AGL.

Question 5

Base (Leg)

Answer 5

On the base leg, you will fly perpendicular to where you will be landing. You will
normally use spoilers to adjust your rate of descent in order to reach the position for the
final turn at the correct altitude.

Question 6

Final Turn

Answer 6

You will begin the final turn early enough to complete the turn in line with where you will
be landing. You also must start it high enough so that you finish the turn at an altitude no
lower than 300 feet AGL.

Question 7

Final Approach

Answer 7

On the final approach you descend to the point where you will touch down. Normally you
will use spoilers to adjust your rate of descent.