AA.VI.D.R7FAA-S-ACS-11A · Nov 2023Risk management
Operating below the minimum descent altitude (MDA) without proper visual references.
Operating below the minimum descent altitude (MDA) without proper visual references.
Bottom line
The dive and drive technique also results in the aircraft maintaining an extended level flightpath as low as 250 feet (ft) above the ground in instrument meteorological conditions (IMC). Approaching the MDA, the pilot has two choices: continue the descent to land with required visual references, or execute a missed approach, not allowing the aircraft to descend below the MDA. Pilots must not descend below the MDA when executing a missed approach from a CDFA.
FAA references
- AC 120-108 ch. 4 List of Tables — AC No: 120-108A
- 14 CFR 91.175 (Takeoff and landing under IFR.) — eCFR current as of 2026-03-05
Build understanding you can use
Unlock the full lesson and continue studying this element.
- Full teaching sections: Hazard; How it shows up; Decision rules; Mitigations; The hazard
- Check your understanding with answers you can reveal