When approaching to land at an airport without a control tower, which direction should the pilot turn?

When approaching to land at an uncontrolled airport, pilots are generally advised to make left-hand traffic patterns unless otherwise specified. This convention allows for a standardized method of approach and landing, which helps increase safety and predictability for all aircraft operating in the vicinity.

By turning left, the pilot maintains better visibility of other traffic and allows approaching aircraft to adhere to same patterns, reducing the risk of potential collisions. The majority of general aviation pilot operating handbooks and aeronautical regulations recommend left turns for approach unless a right-hand traffic pattern is specifically indicated on the airport's charts. Such measures help create an organized flow of air traffic, especially in areas where pilots may not have air traffic control for guidance.