FAA Private Pilot Airplane (PAR)RegulationsEasy
A private pilot is conducting a VFR flight from a non-towered airport. The pilot observes another aircraft on a collision course from the right at approximately the same altitude. What right-of-way rule applies?
- AThe aircraft on the right has the right-of-way.
- BThe aircraft on the left has the right-of-way.
- CThe aircraft with the faster speed has the right-of-way.
- DBoth aircraft should turn to the right.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. The aircraft on the right has the right-of-way.
When two aircraft are approaching head-on or nearly so, each pilot should alter course to the right. However, when aircraft are converging at approximately the same altitude, the aircraft to the right has the right-of-way. This is a fundamental rule for collision avoidance.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. This is incorrect; the aircraft on the right has the right-of-way.
- C. Speed does not determine right-of-way in this scenario; aircraft category and position are the primary factors.
- D. This rule applies to head-on or nearly head-on situations, not converging traffic from the side.
Right-of-Way: Converging Aircraft
When two aircraft are converging at approximately the same altitude, the aircraft to the right has the right-of-way, and the aircraft to the left must give way.
- Scenario: Two aircraft converging at approximately the same altitude.
- Rule: Aircraft to the right has the right-of-way.
- Action: Aircraft to the left must alter course to avoid the other aircraft.
Memory trick: Right-of-Way: Head-on Right, Converging Right, Overtaking Right, Landing Down.