FlyCurrentFLYCURRENT
AA.VI.I.R4FAA-S-ACS-11A · Nov 2023Risk management

Factors that might lead to executing a missed approach procedure before the MAP or to a...

ACS element text (the applicant demonstrates understanding of)

Factors that might lead to executing a missed approach procedure before the MAP or to a go-around below DA, DH, or MDA, as applicable.

Bottom line

If the approach is very high or very low, it may not be possible to establish a stabilized approach, and the pilot normally executes a go-around. Typically, pilots go-around if unable to establish a stabilized approach by 500 ft above airport elevation in visual meteorological conditions (VMC) or 1,000 ft above airport elevation in instrument conditions (IMC).

FAA references

  1. RMH ch. 7 (pp. 7-3–7-4) — FAA-H-8083-2A
  2. AFH ch. 9 (p. 9-6) — FAA-H-8083-3C
  3. AFH ch. 13 (p. 13-8) — FAA-H-8083-3C
  4. 14 CFR 97.3 (Symbols and terms used in procedures.) — eCFR current as of 2026-03-05
  5. AFH ch. 9 (p. 9-34) — FAA-H-8083-3C
  6. IFH ch. 9 (p. 9-46) — FAA-H-8083-15B
  7. 14 CFR 91.175 (Takeoff and landing under IFR.) — eCFR current as of 2026-03-05
Members lesson

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
View membership options