October 10, 2024

The Basics of Missed Approach Procedures

The missed approach is a specific type of manoeuvre, which must be executed when for any reason an approach to landing cannot be safely accomplished. These are procedures at the very core of flight safety, particularly in conditions of poor visibility or during instrument meteorological conditions. Whether an airline captain with years of experience or just starting an aviation career, it is important to know about and practice missed approach procedures as a means of ensuring your safety and the safety of the passengers.

What is a missed approach procedure?

Approach procedure is a series of predetermined flight manoeuvres to be carried out by a pilot should an approach to landing be abandoned. This could be due to various reasons, including:

·       Adverse weather conditions that prevent the pilot from acquiring a visual of the runway

·       An obstruction on the runway such as another aircraft is still on the runway.

·       Aircraft technical problems such as flight instrument malfunction and warning lights during the approach.

·       The pilot does not feel comfortable landing due to a suboptimal approach or environmental factors.

When conducting a missed approach, the pilot transitions from the descent phase of the approach back to an altitude where additional instructions can be obtained from ATC or the procedure can be repeated under more favourable conditions.

Key components of a missed approach procedure

A missed approach procedure consists of four components; climb, heading, altitude and holding pattern.

Following the decision to abandon the landing, the pilot should immediately start climbing. This helps in maintaining separation from terrain or obstacles. The gradient of climb normally 200 feet in a nm is stated in the missed approach instructions.

The pilot should maintain or establish a specific heading specified in the published procedure. Occasionally due to terrain considerations or aligning with air traffic flow patterns, a turn may be part of the procedure.

Missed approach procedures will have an altitude to which the aircraft should climb. Occasionally this will be an interim altitude to which the pilot is cleared before receiving further instructions from ATC.

Some missed approaches require the aircraft to enter a holding pattern. This allows the pilot time to reassess the situation, communicate with ATC, and prepare for another approach or divert to an alternate airport.

Types of IRF missed approach procedures

Missed approaches can be categorised, depending on the type of approach the aircraft was attempting at a given time. It is very important to recognise the differences between them since that will help in making the right decisions under different circumstances.

1. Missed approach for precision approaches (ILS)

For example, a precision approach, such as an Instrument Landing System (ILS) approach, would provide both lateral and vertical guidance to the runway. The pilot will normally have a specific Decision Altitude (DA) at which they must decide whether to land or execute a missed approach.

If the runway environment is not in sight by the time the DA is reached, the missed approach procedure should be executed without delay. An ILS approach might be more precise since in most instances, the aircraft is in IMC and depends on instrument guidance.

2. Missed approach for non-precision approaches

Non-precision approaches provide lateral guidance but not vertical. The pilot must descend using altimeter indications and step-down fixes. VOR, NDB, and RNAV approaches are examples of non-precision approaches.

For non-precision approaches, the pilot has to level off at the Minimum Descent Altitude (MDA) and continue to fly until they reach the missed approach point. If at the MAP the runway is not in sight, a missed approach must be initiated.

3. Circling approaches

A circling approach is carried out when it is not possible for the aircraft to align properly with the runway during the final approach. This may involve circling around the airport and then aligning with a different runway for landing.

If visual references are lost during circling, a missed approach should be initiated by following a specific procedure for circling. It generally includes a turn toward the landing runway and a climb to a safe altitude while re-establishing contact with ATC.

Common errors during missed approaches

Even experienced pilots can commit several kinds of errors during missed approach procedures, especially when the conditions are really stressful. Some of the most frequently made errors are:

Delayed Decision

A hesitation beyond the decision altitude or MAP results in a hazardous descent below safe altitudes. Missed approach decisions should not be delayed by any pilot.

Insufficient Climb Gradient

An inadequate climb gradient may be insufficient to clear obstacles. The pilot should monitor climb performance carefully and ensure they are meeting the required gradient according to the procedure.

Deviation from the Published Procedure

In the heat of the moment, pilots may mistakenly turn in the wrong direction or climb to the wrong altitude. Strict adherence to the published missed approach procedure is critical for ensuring safety.

Break in Communication

During a missed approach, proper communication with the ATC is paramount. In the event of failure to inform ATC of your intention or misunderstanding, it may lead to confusion and probably a conflict with other aircraft.

The Importance of missed approach training

Missed approach procedures hold great importance in both instrument flight training and recurrent pilot proficiency. An instrument-rated pilot has to be competent in making missed approaches under any condition, especially in conditions of IMC, where visual references are not available. Regular practice in simulators and actual flight will help build the confidence and competence necessary to execute these procedures correctly.

Early exposure to the concept makes sure that pilots are prepared for complex flight situations as they progress in their training.

Missed approach procedures are an essential part of safe flying. Knowing the requirements, adhering to published procedures, and maintaining proficiency through regular practice will prepare pilots to execute a missed approach if it becomes necessary or required. Whether flight training for instruments is in progress or a private pilot license has been obtained, the skill of mastered missed approaches will serve long into one’s flying career.