FAA Instrument Rating Airplane (IRA)IFR Procedures and ChartsHard
During a nonprecision approach, a pilot notices the approach chart does not depict a Visual Descent Point (VDP). After reaching the MDA with the runway environment in sight, what guidance applies regarding further descent?
- ADescent below MDA should not begin until the aircraft is in a position to make a normal descent to landing using normal maneuvers
- BThe absence of a VDP means the approach cannot be flown to a landing under any circumstance
- CThe pilot may descend immediately upon reaching MDA regardless of position on final
- DThe pilot must circle to land rather than continue straight in without a VDP
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Descent below MDA should not begin until the aircraft is in a position to make a normal descent to landing using normal maneuvers
A VDP marks the point on final from which a normal descent can be made from the MDA to the runway touchdown point. When no VDP is charted, pilots must use judgment to ensure they are in a position to descend using a normal rate and angle before leaving MDA, preventing an excessively steep or shallow descent to landing.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Absence of a VDP does not prohibit landing; it just requires pilot judgment
- C. Descending immediately regardless of position could result in an unstable/steep descent
- D. Circling is not required just because a VDP is absent on a straight-in approach
Visual Descent Point (VDP)
A defined point on the final approach course of a nonprecision approach from which a normal descent from the MDA to the runway touchdown point may be commenced, provided visual references are in sight.
- Charted as a 'V' on the profile view when published
- When absent, pilot must judge normal descent point manually
- Prevents excessively steep dives to the runway after reaching MDA late on final
Memory trick: No VDP? Judge it—only descend when it's a normal glide.