What signifies that you have proper interval in the traffic pattern?

Having proper interval in the traffic pattern is crucial for maintaining safety and efficiency during flight operations. The correct answer indicates that the aircraft ahead is abeam or behind your wingtip and has completed at least 90 degrees of turn. This positioning ensures that you have a safe separation from the aircraft in front of you, allowing for adequate spacing as you both progress through the traffic pattern.

When the aircraft ahead is in this location relative to your wingtip, it signifies that you are maintaining the necessary distance and time interval. This is important because it minimizes the risk of collision and allows enough time for proper maneuvers during landing and takeoff, particularly when dealing with changing conditions or unexpected maneuvers from the aircraft ahead.

The other considerations, such as specified distances or altitudes, may not provide the same level of situational awareness to ensure safety. For instance, merely being at the same altitude or having a fixed distance does not necessarily account for the dynamic nature of flight paths and the potential for rapid changes in speed or direction. Thus, understanding the proper interval through relative positioning is essential for safe operations in the traffic pattern.