What should be completed once established in the downwind?

Once established in the downwind leg of the traffic pattern, it is crucial to complete the Before Landing Checklist. This is an essential protocol that ensures the aircraft is properly configured and all necessary preparations are made before entering the landing phase. The checklist typically includes items such as confirming the landing gear position, adjusting flaps as required, checking fuel settings, and ensuring that the approach is stable. By completing this checklist while on the downwind leg, pilots can focus on their approach and landing, promoting safety and efficiency.

While there are other important checks that might be performed at different stages of flight, such as checking fuel or determining final approach speeds, these aspects can be addressed at other points in the pattern rather than specifically once on downwind. The emphasis at this stage is on preparing for landing, making the Before Landing Checklist the most relevant choice.