Aviation Terms Quiz: Approach Plates

Missed Approach Holding Pattern

• A designated sequence of maneuvers for aircraft when a landing cannot be completed safely.
• Often involves circling or holding patterns until further instructions are given.

Missed Approach

• Refers to the procedure followed when a pilot cannot land at a specified airport.
• Initiates an ascent to a predetermined altitude to enter a holding pattern or to redirect to an alternate airport.

Non-Compulsory VOR/DME

• VOR (VHF Omni-Directional Radio Range) and DME (Distance Measuring Equipment) aids are available but not required for navigational purposes.
• Used for situational context but not mandated for all flights.

Localizer Course

• Component of an Instrument Landing System (ILS) providing lateral guidance to pilots approaching a runway.
• Operates within a specific frequency range, ensuring precise horizontal alignment with the runway.

Primary Navaid

• Refers to the main navigation aid employed to assist in approach and landing.
• Typically involves ground-based systems like ILS or VOR that are critical for precision guidance.

Secondary Navaid

• Navigation aids that support primary systems, offering additional assistance for approach guidance.
• May include systems such as NDB (Non-Directional Beacon) or supplementary VOR stations.

Arrival Route Course

• The designated path aircraft follow when approaching an airport for landing.
• Structured to ensure safe spacing between aircraft during the approach phase.

Minimum Route Altitude

• Lowest altitude at which an aircraft can safely operate over a specific route while remaining clear of obstacles.
• Essential for flight safety, particularly in mountainous regions or congested airspaces.

Mileage

• Refers to the distance over which flight operations are measured.
• Important for calculating fuel consumption, time, and air traffic control considerations.

Intermediate Fix

• A waypoint along an approach or departure route to assist with navigation and safety.
• Usually marked on approach charts to facilitate easier flying and managing descent angles.

Distance from Facility

• Measurement of how far an aircraft is from a navigation aid or airport.
• Critical for ensuring proper separation between aircraft and maintaining safe altitude levels.

Final Approach Fix

• The last defined point on a standard instrument approach procedure before reaching the runway.
• Indicates the point where pilots should configure the aircraft for landing.

Visual Descent Point

• A visual reference point aiding pilots in transitioning from the final approach to landing.
• Helps pilots ensure a safe glide slope angle when visibility is adequate.

Glidepath

• A specific descent angle for an aircraft during the final approach phase to the runway.
• Generally associated with the ILS system and helps maintain the appropriate descent profile.

Minimum Altitude

• The lowest altitude an aircraft can fly over designated airspace or route segments.
• Ensures safety by keeping aircraft above terrain or obstacles.

Minimum Safe Altitude within 25 NM of Maverick

• Specific altitude guaranteed to keep aircraft clear of all terrain and congestion within a 25 nautical mile radius.
• Critical for pilots to maintain compliance for safety and efficient navigation.