If an aircraft is on the outside downwind leg, what is its priority over other aircraft?

When an aircraft is on the outside downwind leg, it generally has priority over aircraft on the crosswind leg due to the typical sequence of traffic patterns in aviation. The downwind leg positions the aircraft for the final approach, while the crosswind leg is an earlier part of the circuit where aircraft are typically establishing their position for landing or takeoff.

Aircraft on the outside downwind leg are usually in a more defined sequence for landing, as they approach the runway after flying downwind. Therefore, maintaining that established sequence is crucial to prevent collisions and ensure a smooth flow of air traffic.

While the other aircraft may also have their own priorities based on their specific circumstances, the outside downwind leg is one of the more critical points where separation from the crosswind leg aircraft needs to be managed. This common aviation standard helps avoid conflicts in the traffic pattern, promoting overall safety and efficiency in air traffic management.