IFR.VI.D — Circling Approach

Objective: To determine the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills associated with performing a circling approach procedure.

Knowledge

The applicant demonstrates understanding of:

• IR.VI.D.K1Elements related to circling approach procedures and limitations including approach categories and related airspeed restrictions.

Risk Management

The applicant demonstrates the ability to identify, assess and mitigate risks, encompassing:

• IR.VI.D.R1Failure to follow prescribed circling approach procedures.
• IR.VI.D.R2Executing a circling approach at night or with marginal visibility.
• IR.VI.D.R3Losing visual contact with an identifiable part of the airport.
• IR.VI.D.R4Failure to manage automated navigation and autoflight systems.
• IR.VI.D.R5Failure to maintain an appropriate altitude, airspeed, or distance while circling.
• IR.VI.D.R6Low altitude maneuvering including stall, spin, or CFIT.
• IR.VI.D.R7Executing an improper missed approach after the MAP while circling.

Skills

The applicant demonstrates the ability to:

• IR.VI.D.S1Comply with the circling approach procedure considering turbulence, windshear, and the maneuvering capability and approach category of the aircraft.
• IR.VI.D.S2Confirm the direction of traffic and adhere to all restrictions and instructions issued by ATC or the evaluator.
• IR.VI.D.S3Demonstrate SRM.
• IR.VI.D.S4Establish the approach and landing configuration. Maintain a stabilized approach and a descent rate that ensures arrival at the MDA, or the preselected circling altitude above the MDA, prior to the missed approach point.
• IR.VI.D.S5Maintain airspeed ±10 knots, desired heading/track ±10°, and altitude +100/-0 feet until descending below the MDA or the preselected circling altitude above the MDA.
• IR.VI.D.S6Visually maneuver to a base or downwind leg appropriate for the landing runway and environmental conditions.
• IR.VI.D.S8If landing, initiate a stabilized descent. Touch down on the first one-third of the selected runway without excessive maneuvering, without exceeding the normal operating limits of the airplane, and without exceeding 30° of bank.