What is a good practice when flying the airport pattern legs?

Flying close enough to the runway while on the airport pattern legs is a crucial safety practice. This proximity ensures that a pilot remains within glide distance of the runway in case of an engine failure or other emergencies. If an engine fails during the flight in the pattern, being near the runway provides an immediate option for landing, which significantly reduces the risk associated with such situations.

Maintaining this close distance also allows for better situational awareness, enabling the pilot to more easily monitor traffic and adjust their approach if necessary. It's vital for maintaining a safe and efficient flow of traffic around the airport, as pilots can quickly react to discrepancies in spacing and positioning.

In contrast, options that suggest maintaining a far distance, being above 2000 feet, or performing maneuvers away from the runway divert focus from this safety principle and could lead to reduced responsiveness in emergency scenarios or contribute to inefficient traffic patterns at the airport. Maintaining a closer operating area enhances safety, which is paramount during flight operations.