Paradoxical Minimums

Monday, December 19, 2022 at 10:58 AM ET

Verified

Key Takeaways:

ILS and RNAV (GPS) approaches to Runway 30R at Rocky Mountain Metro (KBJC) share initial ground tracks but have critical differences in their missed approach procedures and minimums.
The ILS approach mandates a higher missed approach climb gradient (240 ft/NM); failure to meet this significantly increases its Decision Altitude and visibility requirements, a restriction not present in the GPS approach.
The ILS missed approach path is more susceptible to wind effects and less predictable due to reliance on VOR radials and heading legs, while the GPS missed approach offers a more direct and precise, wind-independent path with safety implications near terrain.

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Rocky Mountain Metro (KBJC, “Metro”) is an active general aviation airport located about 21 NM west of Denver International Airport (KDEN) and just outside of the westernmost north-south border of Denver Class B airspace. While the elevation of Metro is 5673 feet MSL, about 10 miles to the west, the Rocky Mountains reach altitudes of 10,000 feet MSL and higher. The airspace around Metro has several airports, some with gliding and parachuting activities. Periodically the air traffic around Metro is heavy not only because of events but because aircraft typically fly the North-South corridor between the Rockies on the west and the Denver Class B on the east side.

But … They’re the Same