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IFR Approaches

The approach is what the entire IFR system is built around — getting the aircraft from cruise to a runway in conditions where you can't see it. The procedures look intimidating until you see the structure: every approach has the same four segments, the same brief, and the same decision points. Each sub-page below is a focused reference covering one approach type or operational concept.

Study tools for this topic:

📇 Flashcards 📝 Quiz 📅 Training Plan (IFR Track)

Fundamentals

Approach Fundamentals

The four segments, approach categories (A-E), helicopter visibility reduction (1/2 with 1/4 floor), SHARPTT (when no procedure turn), INCRAM brief.

Approach types

VOR & Non-Precision

VOR mechanics, DME, VOR receiver checks (VODGA / PEDS), and other localizer-type approaches (LDA, SDF, LOC back-course).

ILS & Precision

Localizer, glideslope, marker beacons, false courses, approach light systems. Common errors: chasing needles, false-course capture.

RNAV Approaches

The five minimums lines: LNAV, LNAV+V, LNAV/VNAV, LP, LPV. RNP standards, WAAS vs non-WAAS, and the +V trap.

Radar Approaches

ASR (non-precision, lateral only) and PAR (precision, ILS-equivalent). No-gyro PAR for partial-panel scenarios.

Decisions & missed

DA/MDA & Visual References

DA vs MDA, the 91.175 visual references list, sidestep, circling, contact and visual approaches, established on final, CDI sensitivity.

Missed Approach

When to initiate, the climb-then-turn rule, timing from the FAF (even on an ILS), communication priority, and why the brief before the FAF matters.