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Be Prepared To Go Around

Purdue University
Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • Pilots should always anticipate and be prepared to execute a go-around during landing approaches, whether due to safety concerns like runway incursions, imperfect alignment, speed issues, or adverse weather.
  • The author advocates for practicing go-arounds regularly, even when not strictly necessary, to maintain proficiency and readiness for unexpected situations.
  • Go-arounds are viewed positively by the author, serving as valuable practice and an enjoyable opportunity for additional flight time.
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Every time I turn final and select the last notch of flaps, I assume one of two things are going to happen: either I’m going to land or I’m not. I always keep in the back of my mind the thought that I might have to go around, for whatever reason. On occasion, even when the approach is set up perfectly and a successful landing seems certain, I go around anyway, just for the practice.

There could be any number of reasons why you as a pilot might elect to go around. You may realize your approach speed is too fast, you’re not properly aligned with the runway, the wind is too strong or gusting unexpectedly or, as we saw in the video of the Cessna blundering across the active runway right in front of another airplane, you have no choice.

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