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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/sport-landing-lower-priority

Two aircraft are approaching an airport to land. Which one has the right-of-way?

The one at the lower altitude.

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  1. The one at the lower altitude ✔
  2. The one at the higher altitude
  3. The larger aircraft

Why: Among aircraft approaching to land, the aircraft at the lower altitude has the right-of-way. It may not use that to cut in front of an aircraft on final approach or to overtake it.

Huh, didn't know that: Aircraft on final approach or landing have the right-of-way over other aircraft in flight or operating on the surface.

The dad joke
In the landing pattern, the lowest plane wins. It's the only time being down is a good thing.
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References

Answer: The one at the lower altitude. Among aircraft approaching to land, the aircraft at the lower altitude has the right-of-way. It may not use that to cut in front of an aircraft on final approach or to overtake it.

  1. 14 CFR 91.113, Right-of-way rules (eCFR) www.ecfr.gov/api/renderer/v1/content/enhanced/current/title-14?part=91&section=91.113
    the aircraft at the lower altitude has the right-of-way, but it shall not take advantage of this rule to cut in front of another which is on final approach
    Checked 2026-10-11.

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