Fine Print

One of the keys to safe and successful instrument flight is paying attention to details. Often the difference between arriving at your destination uneventfully and not arriving there at all after diverting is hidden in the notes and symbols on an approach chart. What does it mean when a procedure is marked as “not authorized”? Doesn’t ATC protect you by refusing to clear you for an unauthorized procedure?

Key Takeaways:

• Pilots are solely responsible for understanding and adhering to "not authorized" (NA) instrument approach procedure limitations, as Air Traffic Control (ATC) does not protect pilots from these restrictions.
• "Not authorized" procedures are primarily identified by textual notes on approach charts (e.g., "NA") and by a white "A" in a black triangle if the procedure cannot be used to declare an alternate airport.
• Common reasons for NA procedures include time-of-day restrictions (especially night operations due to unlighted obstacles or limited lighting), terrain and obstacle conflicts, and meteorological factors like extreme temperatures affecting baro-VNAV guidance.

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