The New RNAV STAR KKILR into KMSP uses a right downwind for 12R and left downwind for 12L.  I'm wondering if using NOTAMS you can force the right downwind instead of left which is what RC would do?  When I fly this later, I'll be using an IAP since from the last point DOLEE on the STAR I'll go direct to ZESTY then to the FAF.  But if not using IAP, I would be curious to know if it's possible to do this.   Thanks.

Your approach direction to the airport determines the pattern. I think IAP is the only solution. Based on the location of the split which appears NE of the airport I think it it should have assigned 12L but ???. RC uses the calculated center of the airport.

 

The approach windows are defined in the manual.

 

Looking at the action on flightaware.com with a 170@10 wind Chicago arrivals do appear real like to be using a right downwind for 12R.

 

In version 5 of RC and based on the r5.csv files produced I think it defines the patterns for each runway. Right now I can't fire up my old pc to check but later tonight. Anyway I don't yhink rcv4 uses the pattern definition.

 

FWIW I used to work at a location where in VFR I could see the pattern entries and they were right DW for 12R and left for 12L. for easterly arrivals so these assignments are nothing new.

 

What causes the difference is that RC starts vectors much further out than the STARs indicate for vectoring. Once you find out your assigned runway select the IAP for it and if you have RNAV guidance IAP will allow you to use those closer in waypoints and just turn appropriately.

OK, I'll just use IAP as I did. I flew it last night using IAP and flew the whole STAR to the FAF. Thanks.