Trust ATC, But Verify

We spend most of our IFR lives wrapped in the warm cocoon of radar coverage, vectored from point to point by the all-seeing presence of ATC. And while controllers are human and occasionally make mistakes, the checks and safety nets in place rarely result in close calls, let alone bent metal. Its also true that when clearances get tight in the final descent to the airport, responsibility is handed over to the pilot.

jwanwest

Wednesday, November 16, 2016 at 12:00 AM ET

Verified

Key Takeaways:

"RADAR REQUIRED" on an IFR approach often means ATC radar is necessary for initial vectoring to an intermediate fix (due to no IAF) or for identifying specific fixes, with pilots needing to proactively request such assistance.
Pilots flying older or non-GPS equipped aircraft (/U) rely on ATC to call fixes, but typically retain responsibility for identifying the Missed Approach Point (MAP), often by timing.
Airport Surveillance Radar (ASR) approaches provide a distinct option where ATC offers continuous radar guidance from approach entry to the MAP, requiring only a transponder and radio from the pilot.
Future approach chart updates will clarify equipment requirements (e.g., "GPS or RADAR Required") and consolidate notes to provide clearer guidance for pilots.

See a mistake? Contact us.

We spend most of our IFR lives wrapped in the warm cocoon of radar coverage, vectored from point to point by the all-seeing presence of ATC. And while controllers are human and occasionally make mistakes, the checks and safety nets in place rarely result in close calls, let alone bent metal. It’s also true that when clearances get tight in the final descent to the airport, responsibility is handed over to the pilot.

Except when it isn’t. Consider the LOC Rwy 6 to Shreveport, LA (KSHV) and the note “RADAR REQUIRED.” Requirements stated in the plan view and not the approach title mean the requirement is for something other than the final approach segment. Here radar can play at three different levels.