Straight-In Landings

Definition

A straight-in landing is an approach in which an aircraft lines up with the runway centerline on final approach without flying a full traffic circuit (i.e., no downwind or base leg). This procedure may be conducted under VFR or IFR, often to expedite arrivals or when the aircraft is already established on final.

Purpose

  • Allow direct and efficient approaches to the runway
  • Reduce traffic congestion and circuit complexity
  • Minimize maneuvering in the terminal area (especially for IFR or low-time pilots)
  • Provide sequencing options for ATC

When Straight-In Landings Are Used

  • When cleared for a visual or instrument approach that aligns directly with the runway
  • During low traffic periods or when no other circuit traffic is present
  • As part of a standard instrument approach (e.g., ILS, RNAV, VOR)
  • When joining final from a long straight approach path under VFR

Requirements

Condition VFR IFR
Runway in sight ✅ Yes ✅ Often required for visual segment
Traffic permitting ✅ Must not conflict with circuit traffic ✅ ATC will ensure separation
ATC clearance (controlled aerodromes) ✅ Required ✅ Required
Radio call on final (uncontrolled) ✅ Recommended — (not applicable)

Phraseology Examples

SituationPhrase
Pilot request (VFR)“Wien Tower, OE-CVC, request straight-in for runway 11.”
ATC clearance“OE-CVC, cleared straight-in approach runway 11, report final.”
Traffic advisory“Straight-in traffic, Cessna on 8-mile final.”
Circuit conflict“Extend downwind, traffic straight-in on final.”

Straight-In vs. Standard Circuit

FeatureStraight-InStandard Circuit
Legs flownFinal onlyFull: upwind, crosswind, downwind, base, final
Efficiency✅ HighModerate
Separation managementATC or pilot (VFR)Pilots (VFR)
Common useIFR, low traffic VFRVFR training, uncontrolled fields

Safety Considerations

  • ✅ Ensure traffic awareness — visually clear final and pattern area
  • ✅ Make early position calls at uncontrolled fields (e.g., “5-mile final runway 27”)
  • ✅ Monitor circuit traffic to avoid conflict
  • ❌ Do not assume priority — circuit traffic may have right-of-way unless ATC instructs otherwise

Tips for Pilots

  • Always coordinate with ATC when in controlled airspace
  • Use standard phraseology and make your position clear
  • If unsure about traffic, consider flying a standard overhead join or full circuit
  • Practice straight-in approaches in LearnATC’s mixed traffic scenarios to build situational awareness