Simple in principle, procedure turns can turn ugly if the pilot and the controller aren’t on the same page. GPS has made this worse, not better. But that’s easily remedied.
PT in the days of RNAV
It used to be the procedure turn (PT) was the lynchpin of many an instrument approach. Youd track to the VOR or NDB station located on the airport, fly outbound, use a PT to reverse course, and fly back to the station on a specific course while descending to the specified minimum descent altitude. If you didnt visually acquire the airport, locating the missed approach point was a simple matter of identifying station passage.
Key Takeaways:
- Procedure turns (PTs) and holds-in-lieu-of-PTs (HILOs) are fundamental instrument approach maneuvers with various types, each requiring specific execution techniques and pilot proficiency.
- While GPS can enhance situational awareness for PTs, pilots must understand how to properly configure their GPS for these maneuvers and navigate potential complexities in loading or skipping them.
- Clear communication with Air Traffic Control (ATC) is crucial to determine when a PT or HILO is required versus when a straight-in approach or radar vector allows it to be skipped.
- Despite the common use of radar vectors, pilots should regularly practice PTs and HILOs to maintain essential instrument flying skills.
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