FAA Instrument Rating Airplane (IRA)IFR Procedures and ChartsMedium
A pilot flying a Category C airplane is cleared for a circling approach at night. The approach chart lists circling minimums of 1,120 feet MSL and 2 statute miles visibility for Category C. During the circling maneuver, the pilot should remain within what protected area to ensure obstacle clearance?
- AThe area defined by the circling approach radius appropriate to the airplane's approach category, based on the charted circling MDA
- BAny distance from the runway that keeps the airport in sight, since visual contact alone ensures obstacle clearance
- CA fixed radius of 1.3 NM from the airport reference point regardless of approach category
- DThe same protected area used for straight-in Category A approaches, since circling minimums are category-independent
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. The area defined by the circling approach radius appropriate to the airplane's approach category, based on the charted circling MDA
Circling approach protected areas vary by approach category because faster, heavier aircraft require larger turning radii. The radius is based on the aircraft's approach category and is published (or standardized) in relation to the circling MDA; remaining within this area is essential to guarantee the charted obstacle clearance.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Visual contact with the airport does not guarantee compliance with the protected obstacle clearance area.
- C. Radii differ by category; a single fixed radius doesn't apply to all categories.
- D. Category C requires a larger radius than Category A due to higher approach speeds.
Circling Approach Protected Area
The area around an airport within which an aircraft must maneuver during a circling approach to remain assured of the charted obstacle clearance, sized according to aircraft approach category.
- Radius increases with higher approach categories
- Based on aircraft approach speed, not manufacturer's category label
- Obstacle clearance is only guaranteed within this area
- Losing visual reference requires an immediate missed approach
Memory trick: Bigger, faster planes need a bigger circle to stay safe.