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Unusual Alternate

Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • Modern RNAV approaches often still demand traditional non-precision flying skills, such as managing course reversals and single MDAs.
  • Identifying suitable IFR alternates can be challenging due to "Alternate NA" designations, a lack of independent weather reporting, or inconvenient locations.
  • Pilots must be adaptable, employing creative planning strategies and decisive in-flight adjustments, including strategic holding and executing complex RNAV approaches, when faced with unexpected weather and limited alternate options.
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You should know by now that ground-based navaids and approaches are disappearing. While some associated procedures remain for backup and alternate availability at smaller airports, most by now have been replaced by easier, safer, more convenient RNAV approaches to each runway. But here’s the rub: A lot of these still use course reversals, a single MDA, and a basic runway. That means you’ve still gotta know how to manage traditional, non-precision maneuvers, no matter what your GPS can do.

Wrestling the Plan

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