Pitch and Break

Most circuit entries involve a pitch and break. This is where the formation turns onto a circuit leg and separates, or breaks to manage spacing. Typically, the pitch and break is made on the upwind leg turn to crosswind, but can be alternatively made on a different circuit join. (For example, the brief might be for a pitch and break from crosswind to downwind.)

For a pitch onto crosswind, the pitch is a 60° banked level turn onto a heading at 90° to the runway. As wings are levelled on crosswind the power is reduced to 15" MAP initially. When IAS approaches 95 kts, set 18"-20" MAP, and fly a normal circuit. As the lead aircraft pitches, the second aircraft should cease formating and maintain straight and level flight for 3 to 4 seconds (as briefed) before pitching onto crosswind. Maintain level during the pitch (as an aid, keep the lead aircraft on the horizon). This is repeated for each following aircraft in the formation, with 3 to 4 seconds between each subsequent aircraft.