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Expected sequence of pattern broadcasts

Remote Pilot (Part 107) practice question 13 of 15 on Operations / Radio Communications. ACS element UA.V.A.K3 · difficulty: applied. Want to answer it in a timed quiz? Use the Remote Pilot (Part 107) practice mode.

Question bank updated 2026-09-22

QUESTIONA remote pilot monitoring the CTAF hears a manned aircraft report: 'Town and Country traffic, [call sign], entering the pattern, mid-field left downwind for runway 18, Town and Country traffic.' Based on the sequence of broadcasts recommended in the Remote Pilot Study Guide, which two position reports should the remote pilot expect from that aircraft next?

  1. AClear of runway 18, then taxiing to park
  2. B10 miles south inbound for landing, then straight-in for runway 18
  3. CLeft base for runway 18, then final for runway 18
Show the answer and explanation

Correct answer: C. Left base for runway 18, then final for runway 18

  • A — incorrect The 'clear of runway' broadcast comes only after the aircraft has landed and exited the runway, which is after base and final.
  • B — incorrect The 10-mile inbound call precedes pattern entry, and a straight-in approach is an alternative to flying the pattern, not a step that follows a downwind entry.
  • C — correct The guide's sequence after the downwind entry call is a left base report, then a final report, both for the same runway.

BACKGROUND

The study guide lays out the recommended broadcasts for a manned aircraft arriving at a non-towered airport. The sequence is: the initial call 10 miles out with a cardinal direction, then entering the pattern on the downwind leg, then left base for the runway, then final for the runway, and finally a call that the aircraft is clear of the runway and taxiing to park. An aircraft on an instrument approach may instead land straight in without flying the rectangular pattern. A remote pilot who understands this order can anticipate where the manned aircraft will be next and keep the small unmanned aircraft well clear, consistent with the requirement in § 107.37 to yield the right of way to all aircraft.

STUDY TIP

Learn the order downwind, base, final, clear of runway. When you hear 'downwind', the aircraft is about to turn toward the runway, so expect it low and close within a minute or two.

KEY POINTS

  • After the downwind call come left base, then final, for the same runway.
  • The 'clear of runway' call is made after landing.
  • Anticipating the next position helps the remote pilot yield right of way.

SOURCES

  • remote_pilot_study_guide.txt ch7 "Recommended Traffic Advisory Practices"
  • 14 CFR 107.37(a)
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MORE ON OPERATIONS / RADIO COMMUNICATIONS

SkyDrill is not affiliated with the FAA. This is an original practice item based on 14 CFR part 107, 14 CFR part 89, and the FAA Remote Pilot – Small UAS Study Guide (FAA-G-8082-22). Regulations and handbooks are revised; confirm details against the current edition.