What is the recommended action when entering an uncontrolled airport?

When entering an uncontrolled airport, making a radio call to announce your intentions is essential for both safety and procedural compliance. This radio communication serves to inform other pilots in the area of your arrival and intended actions, such as entering the traffic pattern or landing. It increases situational awareness for everyone involved, reducing the risk of mid-air collisions and misunderstandings.

Although circling the airport or flying at a higher altitude might seem like precautions, they do not provide the same level of communication and coordination that a radio call does. Relying solely on visual cues can also lead to misunderstandings regarding other pilots' actions and intentions, increasing the risk of an incident. Thus, making a radio call is the most effective and recommended action when approaching an uncontrolled airport.