Approach

Chapter 13.2

Objectives

To know the preparations for an Approach

To know how to obtain the necessary information for the Approach

To know the Descent Check

Definition of the APPROACH

The concept of the approach normally includes everything from the beginning of the descent to the landing, notably:

Acquiring information for the APPROACH BRIEFING

On a controlled aerodrome:

• Listen to ATIS / VOLMET
  

• Request it from FIC on INFORMATION FREQUENCY

• Request it from air traffic control services

• Listen to traffic communications

Acquiring information for APPROACH BRIEFING

On an uncontrolled aerodrome with an active AFIS frequency:

• Listen to AFIS
  

• Information from pilots of other aircraft in the CIRCUIT

• Confirmation of the aerodrome signal area, the landing T, etc.

Acquiring information for APPROACH BRIEFING

On an uncontrolled aerodrome without an AFIS frequency:

• Use of the local QNH indicated by a flight information service
  

• Planning the approach according to current weather

• Confirmation of the landing direction by observing of the landing T, the windsock or smoke trails, etc.

Configurations and Air Speeds for Approach

Configurations and air speeds for the different segments of the approach are established. Maximum bank angles for the different segments of the approach are taken into account.

Calculation of the Approach Speed V REF and its Tolerances

The minimum speed for the final approach is called the reference speed (V REF). All approach speeds will be given as V REF plus a supplement. The final approach speed (V REF + supplement) must be stabilized at the latest during the last third of the final.

Increments to V REF for the Final Approach with Wind

Correction Coefficients for Winds, Gusts

Increments to V REF for the Final Approach with Wind

Correction Coefficients for Winds, Gusts

Content of an APPROACH BRIEFING

Aerodrome Elevation, Runway in use

Elevation of the destination aerodrome and the runway used for landing

Routing and Altitudes

Routing for the approach and altitudes according to VAC will be memorized.

Speeds

Approach speeds are determined by wind

Missed Approach Procedure

The GO-AROUND procedure for the runway in use and the ROUTING for the alternate aerodrome are determined

Content of an APPROACH BRIEFING

Aerodrome Elevation, Runway in Use

You already know which runway is in use from the ATIS or the AFIS Information.

Content of an APPROACH BRIEFING

Routing and Altitudes

Information about the route to follow and the altitude restrictions are described in the Visual Approach Chart (VAC).

Content of an APPROACH BRIEFING

Speeds

Approach speeds depend on the selected landing configuration (0° flaps / full flaps) and wind conditions. You receive the wind information from the ATIS, AFIS, Tower, etc.

Content of an APPROACH BRIEFING

Missed Approach Procedure

The procedure for a missed approach is described in the Visual Approach Chart (VAC).

Routing to the alternate aerodrome is part of your preparation.

APPROACH BRIEFING when flying circuits

If several consecutive circuits are performed, the APPROACH BRIEFING can be summarized before departure with the DEPARTURE BRIEFING or simplified.

Changes and Additions to APPROACH BRIEFING

If there are significant changes, such as changing landing direction during the circuit, you must analyze the consequences and declare your decision:

Descent Check (for Approach)

When the descent leads directly to an approach, then the APPROACH CHECK may be performed after the DESCENT CHECK. The early performance of these checks will alleviate the intense workload.

Preparation and Checks for Approach

During the APPROACH CHECK you prepare the aircraft for the approach, this is subdivided by their aircraft systems.

Exercise

Develop an Approach Briefing for both directions of your training aerodrome.

Use the worksheet 13.2.11 in your „Basics and Procedures“ folder.