Readback: October 2020

Frank Bowlin

Tuesday, September 29, 2020 at 01:47 PM ET

Verified

Key Takeaways:

The article clarifies a January 2020 AIM update (5-4-7.c) which modified guidance on using approach category minimums, shifting from "must use" to "should use" higher category minimums when flying faster, and allowing for using lower minimums under specific considerations.
It addresses the appropriate use of "Decision Height" (DH) and "Minimum Descent Height" (MDH) for generic comparison of minimums, differentiating them from the operational "Decision Altitude" (DA) and "Minimum Descent Altitude" (MDA) used by pilots.
A debate on the safety of the revised AIM guidance is presented, especially concerning circling approaches, with the editor arguing it can be safe for experienced pilots who understand and compensate for the risks, but cautioning against it in challenging conditions.

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Mins Deep Dive Deep Thought

I read your “Deep Dive into Mins” article in the July issue in which you cite AIM 5-4-7.c. I believe you meant 5-4- 7.a. since I can see no reference in paragraph c for the category minimums you were discussing.

Also, I cannot see any reference in this section of the AIM in which the FAA authorizes the use of lower category minimums while operating at a speed in a higher category. In fact as I read the relevant paragraph it says the opposite, “For example, an airplane which fits into Category B, but is circling to land at a speed of 145 knots, must use the Category D minimums.”