What must pilots avoid while operating in a traffic pattern?

While operating in a traffic pattern, pilots must avoid making unauthorized turns as this can lead to confusion and potential collisions with other aircraft. Traffic patterns are designed to maintain order and safety in the airspace around an airport, allowing pilots to anticipate the movements of others. Making turns that are not standardized can disrupt this flow, increase risk, and create unsafe situations, particularly with incoming and outgoing traffic.

Ensuring that turns are authorized and follow established procedures is crucial for maintaining situational awareness for both the pilot and others in the traffic pattern. Unauthorized turns can also lead to non-compliance with air traffic control instructions, further complicating the traffic environment around the airport. Thus, adhering strictly to the prescribed traffic pattern rules, including turns, is vital for safety during flight operations in the traffic pattern.