What is a common practice among pilots when flying near a military airfield?

Pilots flying near a military airfield often prioritize constant vigilance for military operations. This practice is crucial because military airfields may have specific protocols, maneuvers, or operations that are not as systematic or predictable as those in civilian air traffic. Being aware of such activities helps to ensure safety and compliance with any special regulations that military operations may entail.

Maintaining vigilance means that pilots need to actively monitor their surroundings, which includes being alert to any changes in air traffic or potential hazards that can arise from military training activities, such as low-flying aircraft or unexpected flight paths. This heightened awareness can significantly reduce the risk of mid-air collisions and improve situational awareness in a complex flying environment.

While other practices, such as staying at a constant altitude, automatic landing procedures, and increasing speed during the approach, may have their own merits, they do not carry the same necessity for constant awareness of military operations as a proactive approach to safety and communication in mixed-use airspace.