On a no gyro/radar approach, what kind of turns should be used before the final approach?

• A. Half standard rate
• B. Unbanked turns
• C. Standard rate
• D. Shallow banks

Answer: (C)

When you’re performing a no gyro/no radar approach, you rely on a steady, predictable maneuver to get established on the final approach course. A standard-rate turn provides that predictability: it’s a defined 3 degrees per second, so a typical course change to align with the final approach happens in a known, short time. This helps you position the aircraft accurately and quickly without depending on gyroscopic guidance.

Using half-standard-rate turns would slow the alignment, increasing drift and the time needed to intercept the final approach. An unbanked turn wouldn’t actually bring you onto the final course, and shallow banks would turn too slowly, delaying proper alignment and increasing the chance of overshoot or drift. The standard-rate turn strikes the right balance for a clean, timely transition to the final approach.