A series of predetermined maneuvers prescribed for aircraft (often in formation) for entry into the visual flight rules (VFR) traffic pattern and to proceed to a landing. An overhead maneuver is not an instrument flight rules (IFR) approach procedure. An aircraft executing an overhead maneuver is considered VFR and the IFR flight plan is canceled when the aircraft reaches the “initial point” on the initial approach portion of the maneuver. The pattern usually specifies an initial approach 3 to 5 miles in length, an elliptical pattern consisting of two 180 degree turns, a break point at which the first 180 degree turn is started, altitude (at least 500 feet above the conventional pattern), and a roll-out on final approach not less than 1/4 mile from the landing threshold and not less than 300 feet above the ground.

Source FAA Pilot/Controller Glossary↗ · checked 2026-08-25