Pattern entry at my discretion?

[Twisted-Biscuit]

Hi folks,

I'm new to the website. Hadn't been simming in a while and recently picked up a new twelve core rig which can finally utilise FSX, so I've dusted the DVD off and got back to flying!

I have one question which has always left me a bit stumped: when I am given pattern entry instructions (IFR flight plan), is it then my job to find a fix and fly my pattern on my own or will ATC think I'm a bit strange for assuming my own heading to follow the pattern? Also, if I'm told to "fly straight in" does that mean go straight for the runway and land, or fly straight into the pattern?

These questions probably seem very basic to most of you, but I can't seem to get a good authority on the answer, so any feedback is hugely appreciated.

Cheers,
Rich.

[lnuss]

If ATC tells you to enter (and maybe report) left downwind, then they expect you to fly the pattern from there without further instructions. If you are IFR in IMC (instrument meteorological conditions), you are often cleared for a specific approach, rather than being told to enter the pattern, in which case you are expected to fly the approach as published, not use a standard pattern unless maybe on a "circle to land" type approach. But in good weather you may be given a pattern entry instruction.

Straight in means head straight for the runway. This is generally given when you are close to being lined up with the runway, rather than being in position to make a base or downwind entry.

[Twisted-Biscuit]

Thanks for taking time to answer my question. That certainly clears things up.