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:

Despite controller guidance, pilots remain responsible for maintaining situational awareness, navigating, and avoiding hazards (weather, traffic), actively tracking their position, and should load the full approach (not just vectors-to-final) into their avionics.
Begin the transition to the approach configuration (slowing, flaps, gear) when given the final approach course intercept heading, aiming to be fully configured and trimmed by the turn inbound.
Execute a specific approach checklist to confirm aircraft setup and perform a concise final briefing, reviewing critical "A-D-M" details (Altitude, Definition of MAP, Missed approach procedure) for the segment inside the Final Approach Fix (FAF).

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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?