FAA Instrument Flight Instructor (FII)IFR Procedures and ApproachesMedium
ATC has established timed approaches from a holding fix at a nontowered airport due to high traffic volume. Which condition must exist for ATC to use this procedure?
- AThe tower must be in operation and providing separation
- BRadar must be available to monitor spacing between aircraft
- CThe reported ceiling and visibility must be at or above the minimums specified for the approach
- DAll participating aircraft must be equipped with DME
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. The reported ceiling and visibility must be at or above the minimums specified for the approach
Per the AIM, timed approaches may be conducted when the reported ceiling and visibility are at or above the published minimums for the approach, direct communication is maintained, and no radar or tower separation service is needed — spacing is achieved by timing intervals from the holding fix.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Timed approaches are specifically used when a tower is NOT in operation.
- B. Timed approaches are used precisely because radar separation is not available.
- D. DME equipment is not a universal requirement for timed approaches.
Timed Approaches from a Holding Fix
A nonradar procedure where aircraft depart a holding fix at specified time intervals to fly an instrument approach when weather is at or above minimums and a tower/radar is not providing separation.
- Requires reported weather at or above approach minimums
- Used when radar is not available for separation
- Only one missed approach aircraft handled at a time
- Requires direct pilot-controller communication
Memory trick: Weather must be 'good enough' before the clock starts ticking