Approach Vectors Checklist

Theres nothing quite like hearing the phrase, vectors for the approach. To me at least, this is a calming phrase from an approach or center controller that says, Youre just about there; now well take care of you. On vectors, its easy to let your guard down and lose track of where you are and whats going on, subconsciously delegating those things to that friendly controller.

Tom Turner

Saturday, September 23, 2017 at 12:00 AM ET

Verified

Key Takeaways:

Pilots retain full responsibility for their orientation, avoiding weather and traffic, and knowing their position even when vectored, making active monitoring crucial.
When on vectors, load the *full* approach into avionics (not just vectors-to-final) to maintain situational awareness, and begin configuring the aircraft for approach (slowing down, flaps, gear) upon receiving the intercept heading.
Upon hearing "vectors for the approach," trigger a tailored approach checklist and conduct a final briefing of critical inbound information, focusing on Altitude, Missed Approach Point (MAP) Definition, and Missed Approach Procedure (A-D-M).

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There’s nothing quite like hearing the phrase, “vectors for the approach.” To me at least, this is a calming phrase from an approach or center controller that says, “You’re just about there; now we’ll take care of you.” On vectors, it’s easy to let your guard down and lose track of where you are and what’s going on, subconsciously delegating those things to that friendly controller.

But instead of a phrase that lulls you into thinking the controller has accepted some of your responsibilities as captain of your aircraft, however, hearing “vectors for the approach” should remind you there are several things you need to do to assure a safe arrival…and time is running out. What is a good checklist of things to remember while you are on vectors for the approach?