IR.VI.A — Nonprecision Approach

Objective: To determine the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills associated with performing nonprecision approach procedures solely by reference to instruments.

Knowledge

The applicant demonstrates understanding of:

• IR.VI.A.K1Procedures and limitations associated with a nonprecision approach, including the differences between Localizer Performance (LP) and Lateral Navigation (LNAV) approach guidance.
• IR.VI.A.K2Navigation system annunciations expected during an RNAV approach.
• IR.VI.A.K3Ground-based and satellite-based navigation systems used for a nonprecision approach.
• IR.VI.A.K4A stabilized approach, to include energy management concepts.

Risk Management

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

• IR.VI.A.R1Failure to follow the correct approach procedure (e.g., descending too early, etc.).
• IR.VI.A.R2Selecting an incorrect navigation frequency.
• IR.VI.A.R3Failure to manage automated navigation and autoflight systems.
• IR.VI.A.R4Failure to ensure proper airplane configuration during an approach and missed approach.
• IR.VI.A.R5An unstable approach, including excessive descent rates.
• IR.VI.A.R6Deteriorating weather conditions on approach.
• IR.VI.A.R7Operating below the minimum descent altitude (MDA) or continuing a descent below decision altitude (DA) without proper visual references.

Skills

The applicant demonstrates the ability to:

• IR.VI.A.S1Accomplish the nonprecision instrument approaches selected by the evaluator.
• IR.VI.A.S2Establish two-way communications with ATC appropriate for the phase of flight or approach segment, and use proper communication phraseology.
• IR.VI.A.S3Select, tune, identify, and confirm the operational status of navigation equipment to be used for the approach.
• IR.VI.A.S4Comply with all clearances issued by ATC or the evaluator.
• IR.VI.A.S5Recognize if any flight instrumentation is inaccurate or inoperative, and take appropriate action.
• IR.VI.A.S6Advise ATC or the evaluator if unable to comply with a clearance.
• IR.VI.A.S7Complete the appropriate checklist.
• IR.VI.A.S8Establish the appropriate airplane configuration and airspeed considering meteorological and operating conditions.
• IR.VI.A.S9Maintain altitude ±100 feet, selected heading ±10°, airspeed ±10 knots, and accurately track radials, courses, and bearings, prior to beginning the final approach segment.
• IR.VI.A.S10Adjust the published MDA and visibility criteria for the aircraft approach category, as appropriate, for factors that include NOTAMs, inoperative aircraft or navigation equipment, or inoperative visual aids associated with the landing environment, etc.
• IR.VI.A.S11Establish a stabilized descent to the appropriate altitude.
• IR.VI.A.S12For the final approach segment, maintain no more than a ¾-scale deflection of the CDI, maintain airspeed ±10 knots, and altitude, if applicable, above MDA, +100/-0 feet, to the Visual Descent Point (VDP) or Missed Approach Point (MAP).
• IR.VI.A.S13Execute the missed approach procedure if the required visual references are not distinctly visible and identifiable at the appropriate point or altitude for the approach profile; or execute a normal landing from a straight-in or circling approach.
• IR.VI.A.S14Use an MFD and other graphical navigation displays, if installed, to monitor position, track wind drift, and to maintain situational awareness.