Constant Angle Descent

The opposite of a dive-n-drive descent on an approach is called a Continuous Descent Final Approach, or CDFA. You might think of an ILS as the ultimate CDFA. More specifically, though, this technique is applied to a non-precision approach. So, well use the synonym, Constant Angle Non-Precision Approach (CANPA) for a CDFA on a non-precision approach. What are they? Should you fly one?

Key Takeaways:

• A Continuous Descent Final Approach (CDFA), also called Constant Angle Non-Precision Approach (CANPA) for non-precision approaches, replaces the "dive-n-drive" method with a stable, constant angle descent from the Final Approach Fix (FAF) to the Minimum Descent Altitude (MDA).
• Pilots determine the required descent rate from charts based on groundspeed and the Vertical Descent Angle (VDA), maintaining this rate while actively monitoring stepdown fixes to ensure obstacle clearance.
• General aviation pilots must not descend below MDA unless the runway environment is in sight, and should verify the visual area below MDA is clear of obstacles; a buffer can be used to prevent busting MDA on a missed approach.
• While the dive-n-drive technique still has its uses, flying a CANPA generally reduces pilot workload, enhances precision, and improves situational awareness during instrument approaches.

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