Understanding the requires respecting Airbus’s fly-by-wire (FBW) philosophy. During a go-around, the FBW computer shifts into a specific "Go-Around" law.
For passengers, a go-around can be terrifying—the sudden roar of engines, the nose lifting up, the landing gear clunking back into the belly. But now you know the secret: that "scary" moment is actually one of the most disciplined, choreographed, and safest maneuvers in aviation. It is the Sierra Pattern in action. sierra pattern a320
Strictly speaking, the is a type of go-around. In Airbus documentation, you will not find "Sierra Pattern" written in the FCOM (Flight Crew Operating Manual). It is pilot jargon, originating from the shape of the flight path on the Navigation Display (ND). But now you know the secret: that "scary"
Modern A320neo aircraft (and those with updated FMS standards) can pre-program the Sierra Pattern using the page on the MCDU. Before starting the approach, the pilot loads the missed approach procedure. If a go-around is initiated via the TOGA button, the autopilot will automatically fly the entire Sierra Pattern—lateral turns, altitude constraints, and speed limits—without any further pilot input. In Airbus documentation, you will not find "Sierra