Circling Approaches

This is a manuever1 used when a straight-in landing from an instrument approach is not possible. Circling approach protected areas are defined by connection of arcs draw at certain radii from the runways as shown in the Figure below.

Figure 5-4-29

The radius of the protected area is dependent on the aircraft approach category. The presence of an inverted “C” on the approach plate denotes expanded circling areas. The expanded area accounts for the change in true air speed with altitude. Both of these are shown in the table below:

Figure 5-4-30

The aircraft is clear of obstacles when at or above MDA in the circling area. THis must be kept in mind when performing a missed approach procedure while maneuvering as this may place the aircraft beyond the missed approach point.

References

[1] https://www.faa.gov/air_traffic/publications/atpubs/pcg_html/glossary-c.html#$CIRCLE-TO-LAND%20MANEUVER

[2]: https://www.faa.gov/air_traffic/publications/atpubs/aim_html/chap5_section_4.html AIM 5-4-20 (b) [[2]] <https://www.faa.gov/air_traffic/publications/atpubs/aim_html/chap5_section_4.html AIM 5-4-20 (b)>

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