When splitting the field at an OLF, on which side do you begin the descent?

When splitting the field at an OLF, on which side do you begin the descent?

• A. The upwind side
• B. The downwind side
• C. The left side
• D. The right side

Answer: (A)

Starting the descent on the upwind side gives you a more controllable, safer entry into the field. The wind coming from that side creates a headwind component, which slows your ground speed as you descend. That extra margin means you have more time and stability to judge the field, align for the turn toward the final, and correct any drift without rushing or overshooting the field boundary. Descending on the downwind side would increase your ground speed and drift, making the descent harder to control and the field boundary harder to manage.

Starting the descent on the upwind side gives you a more controllable, safer entry into the field. The wind coming from that side creates a headwind component, which slows your ground speed as you descend. That extra margin means you have more time and stability to judge the field, align for the turn toward the final, and correct any drift without rushing or overshooting the field boundary. Descending on the downwind side would increase your ground speed and drift, making the descent harder to control and the field boundary harder to manage.