Definition
One of the three Initial Approach Fixes (IAFs) on a Terminal Arrival Area (TAA), positioned to the right of the final approach course and used as an entry point into the approach from that side.
Plain English
An entry point on the right side of the approach pattern where you begin flying the published instrument approach.
Context Anchor
Seen on instrument approach charts and in Terminal Arrival Area discussions, especially for T-shaped area navigation approaches.
Derivation
From flight pattern terminology, where the 'base leg' is the segment flown perpendicular to the runway before turning onto final. 'Right base' means that leg is on the right side of the final course. The TAA borrows this familiar pattern language to describe its right-hand entry sector.
Why Pilots Care
Ensures proper sequencing with other aircraft and maintains safe separation during arrival and landing.
Intuition Check
Right base does not mean any right-hand turn, and it is not simply the visual traffic-pattern base leg. In a Terminal Arrival Area, it means the published right-side arrival sector for an instrument approach.
Example Sentence 1
ATC cleared the pilot direct to the right base IAF for the RNAV approach.
Example Sentence 2
The pilot flew a wide right base to allow time for the preceding aircraft to clear the runway.