I see that the FS9 ATC directions for flying a traffic pattern at Ketchikan, Alaska are the same as that shown in the real life airfield information. However, Ketchikan (at approx 100') lies in a narrow valley and flying a "normal" pattern of say 1100' puts you dangerously close to hills that lie alongside both sides of the runway. I am just wondering how this is done in RL-- obviously the order of the day would be "don't hit the hills". It is possible to fly a very narrow pattern (at least in a C172)- maybe this is what is done?Please be kind -- I am not a RL pilot - but interested in how things are done in RL.Barry

Despite what ATC in FS might say, normal patterns are not flown at Ketchikan. There are special regulations governing Ketchikan. According to the Alaska Supplement that I have, you can get copies of the special procedures and patterns from regional FSS's (Ketchikan, Juneau, and Sitka), and the patterns are broadcast IRL on ATIS.But Google is our friend, and I imagine that what you would get from the FSS's would be something along the lines of what you can find in these documents:http://www.gravina-access.com/project_repo...ppendix%20B.pdfhttp://www.cgrmtnhelos.com/Downloads/Ketchikan.pdfHappy reading. Basil

Wow. Thanks for posting those links. The 2nd one is absolutely great. It should be a part of the mIsty Fjords package.Alex

Thanks Basil-- yes, very complicated indeed. I do note however at this site http://www.airnav.com/airport/PAKT and also in the links that you provided , that they do refer to a right hand pattern for Runway 11 (for example). In your links , I can see that such a pattern is very tight.It goes to show that RW procedures are very demanding.Barry

I fly in an out of Ketch all the time in FS9 and the traffic patterns for that airport are pretty hair raising in my opinion. Even with a 1,000 foot traffic pattern altitude, you are pretty close to the treetops.