When an arriving aircraft is cleared "to the circuit," what should the pilot do?

When an arriving aircraft is cleared "to the circuit," it means that the pilot is authorized to enter the traffic pattern established for the airport. The correct action for the pilot in this situation is to join the circuit on the downwind leg. This is because the downwind leg provides a safe and structured entry point into the traffic pattern, allowing for proper spacing and management of aircraft within the pattern.

Joining on the downwind leg ensures that the pilot is positioned to make a left or right turn toward the base leg and final approach, following standard traffic pattern procedures. This method also allows the pilot to visually assess the positions of other aircraft in the circuit, facilitating safe integration into the pattern.

Other options, while potentially relevant in different contexts, do not align with standard traffic pattern procedures. For instance, joining on the climb leg could lead to confusion and unsafe conditions, as it does not fit with the general flow of traffic in the pattern. Circling the airport until further instructed could create unnecessary congestion and is not a standard practice when the pilot has been given a clear instruction to join the circuit. Lastly, making a straight-in landing disregards established traffic patterns unless explicitly instructed by air traffic control, which could lead to safety issues if the pilot does not have