|
|
I fly at some airports with relatively high level of initial student
training (private pilot). Most of these students have no exposure/knowledge
of the overhead approach. It is generally not mentioned/described in any of
the common training materials - nor commonly taught prior to solo or
checkride.
The overhead is designed for high performance aircraft. It is an efficient way to get a lot of planes on the ground quickly. It is also highly preferable in aircraft where loss of power is most likely to result after a reduction in power (i.e. radials...though the case can be made for all engines). Properly flown you will always be in a position to make a safe landing on the runway beginning from about a 2 mile initial.
Any suggestions on how I should first announce my intentions when
approaching the airport.
Don't do it with students in the pattern, unless at a controlled airport where you have confidence in the controllers (i.e. your home 'drome)
Since "overhead approach" will not likely convey
much understanding?
Most pilots understand a "3 mile initial for runway One Niner". However, always expect that they won't.
What position reports are commonly made during an overhead approach?
Initial, the break, and base to final for lead. Wingmen might call downwind....
Do you include any reference to airspeed in the calls to help others
estimate time/position?
If you're having to do that you probably shouldn't be executing the overhead. From the break to touchdown is approx. 15-25 seconds....
There can be some confusion when two airplane arrive to the pattern at
nearly the same time. Logically, the faster plane should go first, but
there is no allowance/reference to that in the FAR/AIM to my knowledge -
only that the lower plane goes first (but I should not use that to advance
my position).
Again, the overhead needs to be used judiciously.
Also, I've often seen a hold-short airplane pull onto the runway for
departure when there was another on downwind/base - assuming the normally
slow inbound plane was still perhaps a minute or more from short final.
This is a good point. When executing the overhead at an uncontrolled airport, part of your traffic scan (just because there's no radio call doesn't mean the pattern's clear!) should include the taxiway leading to the runway.
Seems added speed info may be helpful here also.
Most pilots can't walk and chew gum at the same time....you want them to do time/speed/distance calculations without an electronic E6B. Jeff can spin it up on the whizz wheel in a jiffy, but I don't think I'm alone when I say I have a hard time walking and walking at the same time some days..... ;) In theory, you're right, but consider the audience! LOL!
Any best practices on how to shorten these added/lengthened calls since the
students can be a bit verbose themselves and often leave minimal radiotime?
Any best practices on how to request an overhead approach at a towered
airport?
You hit on it, Brevity is the key. Something like "Frozbot traffic, Lancair Alpha Foxtrot Uniform, 5 mile initial One-Niner, setting up for the overhead with a right break over the numbers, Frozbot." If a guy comes back with "Lancair Fox Uniform, Piper One Two, uh, Apple Bravo is, uh, on a downwind...." it's time to put eyeballs on this guy or reconsider your approach. Circle at 5 miles until the coast is clear, enter the upwind 500' above the traffic pattern altitude, or head out to the 45....
Bottom line is the points made by Lynn and others about executing this maneuver are spot on. Namely:
-You need to be very proficient in handling your airplane
-Understand that you are doing something that is unconventional and potentially confusing to other traffic....defer to standard maneuvers/procedures if there is even a hint of potential confusion.
-Clearly and concisely communicate your intentions
-Have a back up plan 10 miles out....you were monitoring the freq, weren't you?
-ALWAYS be prepared to knock off the approach or break out of the pattern if unexpected airplanes enter the pattern.
And the best piece of advice I can give you, as with anything else in flying. The first time you do something is best done as an observer. Go up with someone who's proficient in the overhead AND has the proper respect for when and where to use it. You'll have fun, learn a lot, and will be a lot better prepared the first time you fly it for yourself.
Happy Flying!
Barry
|
|