Study Notes on IFR Course Reversals and Approaches

Course Reversals

  • Overview of Course Reversals

    • Course reversals are essential maneuvers in IFR flight.
    • There are three basic types of course reversals:
      • Procedure Turn (PT) with a barb.
      • Holding Pattern Course Reversal.
      • Other, less common methods that are still relevant for FAA exams.

  • Procedure Turn with Barb

    • Definition: A procedure turn involves a specific maneuver to reverse course.
    • Illustrated by the 45-degree turn followed by a 180-degree turn (barb).
    • Important for ILS approaches, notably ILS 8 and Butler approach.

  • No Procedure Turn (No PT)

    • This notation on approach charts indicates that the procedure turn is not required.
    • The term "procedure turn" can refer to any method of reversing course, not limited to the barb method.
    • Example: When the approach plate has a fixed holding pattern depicted, No PT prohibits performing the procedure turn.

  • Illustrative Example

    • Example presented: RNAV 28 into Beaver.
      • Holding pattern is necessary for the course reversal.
      • If cleared to a specific point (e.g., J Dove), pilots perform a course reversal to enter the holding pattern.
      • Initial approach fix allows direct clearance for approach.

  • Notable Exceptions

    • ILS 32 at Pittsburgh shows no course reversals depicted due to heavy traffic/specific procedural requirements.

Procedure Turn Flight Clearance

  • Procedure Turn Clearance

    • For any procedure turn, maintain appropriate altitude until crossing the fix.
    • Example: 7,700 feet until the outbound course is established before descent to 6,900 feet.
    • Descent can occur only after intercepting the inbound course at a specified altitude.

  • Terrain Clearance Assurance

    • Each approach plate displays protected airspace ensuring clearance from terrain/obstacles.
    • Standard guarantee of at least 1,000 feet of clearance during a procedure turn.
    • Verification through flight-checking procedures on designed plates to ensure safety.

Precision vs. Non-Precision Approaches

  • Differentiating MDA and DA

    • Decision Altitude (DA)
      • Defined for precision approaches; altitude you reach when following glide slope or path.
    • Minimum Descent Altitude (MDA)
      • Defined for non-precision approaches; the altitude you maintain until reaching the missed approach point.
      • Important to remember that descent is mandatory until the MDA before proceeding to the missed point.

  • Dive and Drive Method

    • For non-precision approaches: dive down to MDA, level off, then proceed to the missed approach fix with visual references.
    • If the visual requirements are not met, initiate a missed approach.

  • Visual Descent Operations

    • If visual cues are established (runway in sight), continue descending as per DA.
    • If not, execute missed approach procedures.

Missed Approach Procedures

  • Initiation

    • Missed approached can be triggered by inadequate visibility or other pre-specified criteria on approach plates.
    • Each approach has distinct missed approach procedures tailored to obstacles around the airport.

  • Operational Considerations

    • Missed approach may require specific actions: climb, turn, distance to hold, and missed approach points to be recognized.

  • Missed Approach Points

    • Defined as the location or condition that triggers the initiation of the missed approach.
    • Various ways to identify: timing (5 T's), DME indications, and visual identifiers when applicable.

  • Example of Missed Approach

    • Clear missed approach instructions include altitude, route specifics, and directives to ensure obstacle avoidance.
    • Entry into holding patterns post-missed approach should be pre-briefed including thorough knowledge of the types of entries (teardrop or parallel).

Circling Approaches

  • Circling Approach Concepts

    • Defined when final approach course comes in at an angle greater than 30 degrees or if vertical descent rate exceeds 400 feet per nautical mile.
    • Aeronautical guidelines require proper pattern entries and visual management for landing.

  • Minimum Requirements for Performing Circling

    • Always monitored; if unable to maintain altitude and visibility, missed approach protocol must be initiated, safely directing toward the runway.

  • Calculating and Depositing Circling Pattern

    • Based on distance of the aircraft from runway ends and ensuring environmental clearance to avoid terrain.

Chart Interpretation and Understanding

  • Understanding Approach Plates

    • Importance of thoroughly reviewing the approach plates.
    • Awareness of different symbols, altitudes, and any exemption clauses or operational notes.

  • Instrument Approach Structure

    • Detailed understanding of each segment, including the initial approach, intermediate approach, final approach, and missed approach segments.

  • Missed Approach Procedures

    • Each missed approach must be understood based on both instrumental navigation and visual management procedures, alongside crucial safety checks.

General Advice and Preparation

  • Practice and Preparation

    • Engage in practicing each protocol repeatedly; use resources like Shepard Air effectively for learning and retention, begin assignments early and ensure comprehension.
    • Be thorough: Final exams rely heavily on your understanding of everything taught throughout the course.

  • Operational Viability Matrix

    • For every approach, comprehend the underlying conditions affecting visibility and altimeters due to operating altitude or local environmental variables.

  • Ensure Clarity on Requirements

    • Remember the potential discrepancies found in approach charts or airspace regulations; they can often dictate operational adjustments critical for maintaining safety and legality in IFR operations.