Sierra Pattern A320 //free\\ Jun 2026

This article deconstructs the Sierra Pattern: what it is, why it exists, the physics of unpowered flight in an A320, and the terrifyingly narrow window of success it provides.

Managing the lateral and vertical energy of a 70-ton jet. The Anatomy of the A320 Sierra Pattern sierra pattern a320

If you push the "NAV" button on the FCU (Flight Control Unit) during a go-around, the A320 will attempt to fly the MCDU-stored missed approach, which is likely a runway centerline climb followed by a specific waypoint. The Sierra Pattern is a visual maneuver . You should remain in or TRK (Track) mode using the FCU heading knob. This article deconstructs the Sierra Pattern: what it

For the pilot, flying a Sierra Pattern means ignoring the screaming altitude alert, ignoring the instinct to pitch for best glide (which is 180 knots, not 220), and instead deliberately flying a series of inefficient, G-loaded turns at 25,000 feet while the cabin altitude climbs past 15,000 feet. The Sierra Pattern is a visual maneuver

The FMS uses a 3D predictive algorithm. For a given waypoint (WPT B) with a constraint AT OR BELOW 10000 :

| Phase | Pilot Action | FMA (Flight Mode Annunciator) | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | | "Go Around, Flaps" (Select TO/GA detent) | LVR CLB flashes; SRS | GA TRK | | 2. Positive Climb | Call "Positive Rate" → Gear Up | SRS | GA TRK | | 3. Acceleration | At Thrust Reduction Alt (e.g., 1000’ AAL): - Check LVR CLB blue → Pull thrust to CL detent. | THR CLB | SRS | GA TRK | | 4. Transition | At Acceleration Alt (e.g., 1500’ AAL): - SRS automatically disconnects. - Select NAV or HDG as needed. - Retract flaps on schedule. | OP CLB | NAV (or HDG) |