Free safety module 2 of 7Aerodrome Operations & Situational Awareness10 min readLast reviewed: 2026-09-13
Operate safely at non-controlled aerodromes: joining the circuit, who gives way to whom, the rules for straight-in approaches, and clear radio broadcasts on the CTAF.
Scenario
Mixed-Performance Traffic in the Circuit with No Tower. You are arriving at a non-controlled aerodrome in a Cessna 172. The CTAF is 126.7. A faster turboprop has announced a straight-in approach to Runway 18 from 5 NM, while a tailwheel aircraft is conducting touch-and-goes on the crosswind Runway 27.
Decisions and actions
Listen before you transmit: monitor the CTAF well before arrival to build a picture of the runway in use, circuit direction and other traffic.
Broadcast on the CTAF whenever it is reasonably necessary to avoid a collision (CASR 91.630), and use the standard calls recommended in CASA guidance for non-controlled aerodromes — for example inbound, joining the circuit, and on final.
A pilot flying a straight-in approach must give way to aircraft already established and flying in the circuit (CASR 91.395(2)(b)), and must first determine the wind and runway in use (CASR 91.395(2)(a)). Never assume the other pilot has seen you.
If overflying to join, stay at least 500 ft above circuit altitude until clear of the circuit traffic.
Safety traps
See-and-avoid failure due to blind spots beneath a high wing or above a low wing in the turn onto final.
Non-standard radio phraseology creating ambiguity about intentions and runway choice.
High closing speeds between training aircraft and faster commuter aircraft on final.
Check your understanding
1. An aircraft on a straight-in approach and an aircraft flying the circuit are converging on the same runway at a non-controlled aerodrome. Under CASR 91.395, who must give way?
The aircraft in the circuit, because the straight-in aircraft is already on final
The aircraft on the straight-in approach, which must give way to aircraft established and flying in the circuit
Whichever aircraft broadcast on the CTAF last
The slower aircraft, regardless of position
Show answer
B. CASR 91.395(2)(b) requires a pilot conducting a straight-in approach to give way to any other aircraft established and flying in the circuit pattern. AIP ENR 1.1 notes straight-in approaches are not a recommended standard procedure.
2. Under CASR 91.630, when must a pilot in a VHF-equipped aircraft make a broadcast on the CTAF near a non-controlled aerodrome?
Only when first contacting air traffic control
Only when the aerodrome has a certified radio operator on duty
Whenever the pilot considers it reasonably necessary to avoid a collision with another aircraft
Only after landing, to report vacating the runway
Show answer
C. CASR 91.630 requires broadcasts on the CTAF when operating in the vicinity of a non-controlled aerodrome with a VHF radio and a broadcast is reasonably necessary to avoid a collision. CASA guidance then recommends standard calls such as inbound, joining and final.
Educational use only. This module does not replace current legislation, the AIP, ERSA, authorised weather briefings, the aircraft flight manual or instructor guidance. Verify operational information through official sources before flight.
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