This maneuver is executed if the flight crew reaches the decision height or minimum descent altitude and cannot establish visual reference with the runway. The procedure dictates specific headings, altitudes, and radio calls to keep the aircraft clear of terrain and other traffic while climbing back to a safe altitude. It safely transitions the aircraft out of the landing phase to set up for another attempt or a diversion.
Heard on the job
Tower, Delta four twenty is executing the missed approach, climbing to three thousand.
Insider tip
Pilots are trained to always expect a missed approach and treat a successful landing as a bonus.
Also heard as
- go-around