A pilot flying an IFR flight requests a contact approach instead of the published instrument approach to save time. Under 14 CFR 91.175(l), which condition must be satisfied before ATC may authorize this approach?
- AThe reported ceiling must be at least 1,000 feet and visibility 3 statute miles, matching basic VFR minimums.
- BA contact approach is authorized only at airports with no published instrument approach procedure.
- CThe pilot must request it, reported ground visibility must be at least 1 statute mile, and the pilot must remain clear of clouds with reasonable expectation of continuing to the airport by visual reference.
- DATC may initiate a contact approach at any time the controller believes the pilot has the airport in sight.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. The pilot must request it, reported ground visibility must be at least 1 statute mile, and the pilot must remain clear of clouds with reasonable expectation of continuing to the airport by visual reference.
A contact approach must be requested by the pilot (never assigned by ATC), requires at least 1 statute mile ground visibility reported for the airport, the aircraft must remain clear of clouds, and the airport must have a published instrument approach procedure. This allows a shortcut to landing when the pilot can see the ground and reasonably expects to reach the airport visually.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. 1 statute mile visibility, not 3, and no ceiling requirement exists for a contact approach.
- B. The airport must have a published approach procedure for a contact approach to be available.
- D. ATC can never initiate a contact approach; only the pilot may request it.
Contact Approach
A pilot-requested IFR approach procedure allowing the pilot to proceed visually to an airport with at least 1 SM ground visibility, remaining clear of clouds.
- Must be requested by the pilot, never assigned by ATC
- Requires reported ground visibility of at least 1 statute mile
- Airport must have a published instrument approach procedure
- Pilot must remain clear of clouds throughout
Memory trick: 'Contact = pilot's Choice, 1 mile, Clear of clouds.'