In essence, the is a specific go-around procedure where the aircraft climbs straight ahead to a safe altitude (typically 1,500 feet above ground level), then executes a S -shaped series of turns to re-enter the downwind leg of the traffic pattern, offset from the runway centerline.
: It integrates the "A320 flow patterns," where a pilot’s eyes and hands move across the cockpit in a logical sequence to check systems and configurations.
Sierra Pattern is a foundational training exercise for Airbus A320 sierra pattern a320
As soon as you engage TO/GA, twist the FCU altitude knob to the higher ATC clearance (e.g., 5000 ft) while still in the low-altitude phase.
| Letter | Meaning | | :--- | :--- | | | Speed – SRS holds V2 | | I | Immediate – Engages at TO/GA detent | | E | Elevation – SRS stops at 1500’ AAL | | R | Retard – No thrust reduction until CLB detent | | R | Runway track – GA TRK follows initial path | | A | Accelerate – Only after SRS terminates | In essence, the is a specific go-around procedure
You cannot restart. You glide down to 10,000 feet, and using the remaining Blue hydraulics, you perform a "Sierra Ditching" procedure. You aim for flat water, 10° nose-up, landing gear up. The A320 has a ditching rating of "survivable." (Notable: US Airways 1549 was not a dual-engine failure at altitude; it was a bird strike at low altitude. The Sierra Pattern doesn't apply there.)
Mastering this circuit and the high-stakes V1 cut maneuver is what transforms a type-rated pilot into a truly safe and competent operator of the Airbus A320, ready for the challenges of the line. | Letter | Meaning | | :--- |
Typically involves a constant-airspeed descent and climb sequence. Pilots must manage thrust and pitch to maintain a specific rate (e.g., 1,000 fpm) while holding a steady heading and speed.
As the speed drops below VFE (Maximum Flap Extension Speed) for Flaps 1, Slats are extended. The aircraft transitions to "Green Dot" speed.
A 180-degree turn is initiated at a standard 25-degree bank angle.
The Sierra Pattern is designed for non-precision approaches where vertical guidance from an Instrument Landing System (ILS) is unavailable. Pilots use it during Lateral Navigation (LNAV) or Localizer (LOC) approaches.