What is the definition of a base leg in aviation?

The base leg in aviation refers to the flight path that occurs at a right angle to the landing runway, typically positioned off the approach end of the runway. This maneuver is an essential component of the traffic pattern, which includes several defined legs: the upwind leg, crosswind leg, downwind leg, base leg, and final approach.

During the base leg, aircraft turn from the downwind leg and begin aligning themselves for landing. It is a crucial stage that leads into the final approach to the runway. The base leg allows pilots to configure the aircraft appropriately for landing, ensuring they are at the right altitude and speed while maintaining separation from other traffic in the pattern.

The other choices do not accurately define the base leg:

• A straight line flying directly to the runway describes the final approach leg, not the base leg.

• The initial approach phase of landing pertains more broadly to the entire sequence of legs leading up to the landing, which includes multiple paths, rather than specifically identifying the base leg.

• A turn made before landing could reference several different turns in the traffic pattern, but it does not specifically encapsulate the distinct characteristics and function of the base leg.

Understanding the role of the base leg helps pilots ensure safe and orderly traffic management around airports