The Power of Paint

Look at the RNAV (GPS)-A approach at Naples, FL (KAPF). Seems like it is a straight-in approach to Runway 32 but it only has circling minimums. There are three conditions stated in the FAA Instrument Procedures Handbook (FAA-H-8038-16B) preventing straight-in minimums: 1) The final approach course alignment with the runway centerline exceeds 30 degrees, which isn't the case here. 2) The descent gradient is greater than 400 feet/NM from the FAF to the threshold crossing height (TCH). The actual descent gradient here is 316 feet/NM. 3) A runway is not clearly defined on the airfield. This is all that's left.

Editorial Staff

Tuesday, January 28, 2020 at 12:00 AM ET

Verified

Key Takeaways:

Runway markings are critical for determining available instrument approach minimums (e.g., straight-in vs. circling) and defining whether a runway is classified for visual, non-precision, or precision instrument operations.
Specific runway markings, such as designators, centerlines, thresholds, aiming points, touchdown zones, and edge lines, are essential for classifying runways and providing crucial visual guidance for pilots during landing.
Beyond landing, runway markings also play a significant role in determining take-off visibility minimums and establish precedence for signage at intersecting runways based on approach precision.
Ultimately, these carefully designed runway markings are fundamental safety features that provide vital situational awareness for pilots during both take-off and landing operations.

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Look at the RNAV (GPS)-A approach at Naples, FL (KAPF). Seems like it is a straight-in approach to Runway 32 but it only has circling minimums. There are three conditions stated in the FAA Instrument Procedures Handbook (FAA-H-8038-16B) preventing straight-in minimums: 1) The final approach course alignment with the runway centerline exceeds 30 degrees, which isn’t the case here. 2) The descent gradient is greater than 400 feet/NM from the FAF to the threshold crossing height (TCH). The actual descent gradient here is 316 feet/NM. 3) A runway is not clearly defined on the airfield. This is all that’s left.

The FAA interpretation is that Runway 32 does not have instrument-runway markings; i.e. lacks the paint to make the runway clearly defined. Of course, lack of straight-in minimums doesn’t prevent a straight-in landing, so long as you use the circling minimums.