When should you avoid requesting closed traffic?

Avoiding the request for closed traffic is crucial when an aircraft is between initial and the break. This phase of flight is critical as the aircraft is transitioning from a straight flight path to a turn that leads towards landing. During this time, the pilot is focused on maintaining proper operational control and managing airspeed and configuration changes. Requesting closed traffic can introduce unnecessary complications and divert the pilot’s attention, which might increase the risk of an incident. Maintaining safety and clarity in communication during these critical phases is essential for successful operations.

While there may be strategic considerations in the other scenarios, they do not present the same level of operational conflict as when an aircraft is initially turning onto the final approach. For example, if no aircraft are in the area, it's safe to request closed traffic. Similarly, if cleared for final approach, the aircraft is already set for landing, and requesting closed traffic wouldn’t typically apply, and when established downwind, the flight path may allow for such a request without interference. However, the critical nature of the transition from initial to break makes that scenario unique.