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 Constant Angle Non-Precision Approach (CANPA), or CDFA, is a technique for non-precision approaches that involves maintaining a constant descent angle from the Final Approach Fix (FAF) to the Minimum Descent Altitude (MDA), and then visually to the runway.
• Successful CANPA execution requires pilots to stabilize before the FAF, accurately calculate and maintain a constant descent rate based on groundspeed, and diligently monitor stepdown altitudes for obstacle clearance.
• General aviation pilots must not descend below MDA without visual contact with the runway environment; they can employ strategies like adding an altitude buffer or reverting to a dive-n-drive at MDA, though the latter negates some benefits.
• Flying CANPAs significantly reduces pilot workload, increases precision, and improves situational awareness compared to traditional "dive-n-drive" approaches.

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