Navigating Air Traffic: Why Planes Curve Before Landing at Trivandrum International Airport

Have you ever wondered why airplanes curve before landing at Trivandrum International Airport?

Why Do Planes Curve Before Landing?

It is a common misconception that planes always follow a straight line path as they approach landing. In reality, there are several reasons why pilots might choose to curve before landing. These include wind direction, runway alignment, and air traffic control (ATC) directions.

Wind Direction and Runway Alignment

One of the most critical factors in determining whether a plane should curve before landing is the wind direction. Pilots always aim to land with the wind at their back, as this minimizes the risk of a tailwind causing the plane to overspeed or overcorrect on landing. This is crucial for both safety and efficiency.

Runway Markings and Alignment

Each runway has two ends, and both are considered as runways and marked accordingly. Pilots and air traffic control (ATC) decide which runway to use for landing based on the approach direction and wind conditions. Pilots follow the ATC directions to ensure a safe and efficient landing.

ATC Direction and Coordination

At busy airports like Trivandrum International, ATC plays a vital role in coordinating the landing and takeoff procedures. When an aircraft approaches the airport from an opposite direction, it often needs to align itself with the correct runway. This might involve a curve or a series of turns to ensure a safe landing.

Operating Without a Control Tower

When approaching airports without an operating control tower, pilots need to exercise caution and assess the runway conditions. They will fly over and look for any potential hazards such as deer or cattle on the runway. They also use wind socks to determine the wind direction as a first step before lining up and landing.

Streights and Patterns

For airports with control towers, pilots can often execute a straight-in approach. If the wind is blowing in the same direction as the runway, they can fly directly in and land. However, if the wind is blowing in the opposite direction, they will need to make turns and fly in a pattern to align with the runway.

Visibility and Instrument Approaches

Instrument approaches require pilots to line up the aircraft at a higher altitude, where visibility conditions are better. Pilots may need to execute maneuvers such as procedure turns to align with the runway. In these conditions, simplicity is key to ensure a safe landing.

Go-Around Procedures

Despite the best planning, there are times when a pilot may need to go around the airport. This can be due to various reasons, including runway contamination, excessive crosswinds, or forgetting critical steps. A timely decision to go around and try again is crucial for safety.

Procedure and Practice

One of the most popular videos demonstrating go-around procedures is called "The Go-Around Song." It showcases how pilots handle this maneuver with skill and precision. Navigating the skies is a nuanced process that requires a blend of technical expertise and experience.

Whether flying a small plane or a larger aircraft, pilots face numerous challenges. The small planes offer a more controlled environment, but flying large jets poses significant challenges that require exceptional skill and courage. I have immense respect for all pilots, regardless of the size of the aircraft they operate.