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Common Approach Mistakes

Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • Utilize cruise time for proactive approach planning, including missed approach procedures and taxi routes, and develop strong terminal IFR situational awareness to stay ahead of the aircraft.
  • Combat continuation bias by establishing clear "gates" (e.g., at FAF, 1000/500/200 feet above minimums) with specific criteria to objectively determine if an approach is stabilized and safe to continue.
  • Maintain an optimized instrument scan to avoid fixation and overcorrection, making minor, conscious adjustments to keep parameters centered throughout the approach.
  • Execute precision and non-precision approaches with meticulous attention to stepdowns, equipment limitations, and power management at minimums (DA/MDA), always being prepared to initiate a go-around if the approach is unstabilized or conditions are not met.
See a mistake? Contact us.

When I am doing check rides, training and instrument proficiency checks, I take a lot of notes. My goal is to write down symptoms needing attention, such as altitude deviation or airspeed mismanagement, and find solutions. Most pilots strive for professionalism, and they work with me to identify those solutions.

During post-flight briefings, I start by asking students to complete a self-evaluation. If there are any deviations from standards, typically students can point them out. I would like to think I earn my keep by helping them figure out why. The following are the most common notes I have taken, with solutions to situations where pilots have either deviated from standards or ended up in an unsafe situation on an instrument approach.

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