Which part of the traffic pattern allows for a standard safe entry to landing?

The downwind leg is the part of the traffic pattern where an aircraft flies parallel to the runway, typically at a safe altitude, with the runway on its left side (in a standard left-hand traffic pattern). This leg is crucial for allowing pilots to properly assess the traffic situation, execute necessary checks, and prepare for the landing phase.

During this segment, pilots can initiate their descent, configure the aircraft for landing by lowering the landing gear and notifying air traffic control, and establish a safe approach to the runway. The downwind leg provides the distance and time necessary to make adjustments to speed and altitude, ensuring a standard and safe entry into landing.

In contrast, the base leg is the portion of the traffic pattern prior to turning onto the final approach, where pilots may begin their descent but have less time to navigate and prepare for landing. The clearance delivery leg is not a term associated with the traffic pattern; rather, it pertains to receiving flight clearances prior to departure, and the pushback leg is related to the ground operation of taxiing away from the gate. Therefore, the downwind leg is the most appropriate choice for facilitating a standard and safe landing approach.