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AA.VI.G.R2FAA-S-ACS-11A · Nov 2023Risk management

Executing a circling approach at night or with marginal visibility.

ACS element text (the applicant demonstrates understanding of)

Executing a circling approach at night or with marginal visibility.

Bottom line

The untrained instrument pilot may find the visibility still limited, the terrain completely unfamiliar, and altitude above terrain such that a “normal” airport traffic pattern and landing approach is not possible.

FAA references

  1. AFH ch. 18 (p. 18-22) — FAA-H-8083-3C
  2. 14 CFR 91.175 (Takeoff and landing under IFR.) — eCFR current as of 2026-03-05
  3. IPH ch. 4 (p. 4-39) — FAA-H-8083-16B
  4. IFH ch. 1 (p. 1-23) — FAA-H-8083-15B
  5. IFH ch. 3 (p. 3-8) — FAA-H-8083-15B
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