Sneak in the Side Door

Before you get a contact approach, some more boxes need to be checked, starting with weather minimums on par with Special VFR and Class G airspace. AIM 5-4-25 kicks off with them: Pilots operating in accordance with an IFR flight plan, provided they are clear of clouds and have at least one mile flight visibility and can reasonably expect to continue to the destination airport in those conditions, may request ATC authorization for a contact approach.

Key Takeaways:

• A contact approach allows IFR pilots to fly visually to an airport in reduced visibility, but it must be explicitly requested by the pilot, who then assumes full responsibility for maintaining visual conditions and clearance from terrain/obstructions.
• Key requirements include at least one statute mile flight and ground visibility, remaining clear of clouds, and a reasonable expectation to continue to a destination airport that has a published and functioning instrument approach procedure.
• ATC cannot initiate this procedure and must apply approved separation, often by sterilizing airspace around the airport, which can limit its use at busier locations.

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