Tue Feb 07, 2017 8:22 pm
#1517772
Don't get it, the OP was about climbing into cloud after taking off, if you level then 180 in the normal circuit direction you'll be heading back towards downwind, and should still be within the ATZ. I'm sure there are some airfields which might be an exception but doing a downwind join at or a bit below circuit height should be safe enough, as a general rule. What is the OCH for Goodwood?
Ok, take off from Goodwood southerly, into cloud at 800', level so now 900', 180 turn, whoops, turned too far so turn back then start thinking about what has happened, all with a Southerly wind which is why you took off in that direction, then start descent, still with a wind blowing you towards the hills, now let down with a 650' mast in front of you, you went into cloud at 800' but of course it gets lower approaching the hills.
Rather you than me, I would much rather be letting down straight ahead where I know there is no high ground and the cloud is probably getting higher as I get away from the hills!!
Real pilots fly anything they can get their hands on!