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Steering Clear of Instrument Approach Paths

Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • VFR pilots, even in good weather, should always check for instrument approach locations along their route to avoid flying through inbound approach courses.
  • This is crucial because IFR traffic often uses approaches, and VFR traffic practices them, sometimes to unexpected runways.
  • To enhance safety, monitor CTAF of nearby airports, consider cruising above 3,000 feet AGL, and review charts to steer clear of these hazardous areas.
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Even if you only fly VFR in good weather, it pays to check for the location of instrument approaches along your route of flight. Just as you always ensure that your course doesn’t take you dangerously close to terrain or obstacles, you also want to avoid flying through the inbound course of an approach that may be in use.

The reasons should be fairly obvious. Even on good weather days, IFR traffic often concludes a flight with an instrument approach. VFR traffic might be shooting practice approaches as well, and not always to the runway you think makes the most sense based on the surface winds. As always, make sure you monitor the CTAF of nearby airports.

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