Understanding the Concept of a Go-Around in Aviation

In the world of aviation, a go-around is a term used to describe the action taken by pilots when they are not comfortable landing their aircraft. This maneuver is a critical part of aviation safety, ensuring that pilots can safely adjust to changes in flight conditions and improve their chances of landing successfully.

Why is a Go-Around Considered?

A go-around can be initiated for several reasons, such as landing too low or too high, not being aligned with the runway, or any other situation where the pilot is not confident in the landing. While the term 'abort' might evoke a negative reaction, pilots use the term 'go-around' to describe this safe maneuver.

When a pilot initiates a go-around, the aircraft will typically climb, turn away from the runway, and attempt to land again under improved conditions. This is a standard procedure in aviation and is crucial for maintaining safety and preventing accidents.

Types of Go-Arounds

Pilots can execute go-arounds during both instrument and visual approaches:

1. Instrument Approach Procedures (IAP)

During an instrument approach procedure, if the pilot is unable to land for any reason, they will follow a missed approach procedure. This involves executing a go-around and performing a specific maneuver to ensure a safe separation from the runway and the local airspace. Pilots may need to follow a set procedure such as climbing and turning to a specific heading or heading back to the missed approach point.

2. Visual Approach

For a visual approach, if the pilot determines that landing is not safe, they will initiate a go-around. This could happen immediately as the aircraft transitions from an instrument approach to a visual approach, or after the initial visual contact with the runway. The pilot will instruct the aircraft to climb and turn to a safe altitude before attempting another approach or landing at a different runway.

Go-Around Procedures and Pilots' Responsibilities

During a go-around, the pilot's primary responsibility is to ensure the safety of the aircraft and its passengers. The decision to abort a landing can be based on several factors, including weather conditions, runway conditions, visibility, and the overall situation. Pilots are trained to make these decisions quickly and without hesitation to avoid dangerous situations.

No-blow policy is a common practice in commercial aviation, where a pilot is never blamed for exercising their judgment to perform a go-around. This policy encourages pilots to prioritize safety over perfection and ensures that the pilot feels comfortable making such decisions without fear of repercussion.

Conclusion

Understanding the concept of a go-around is crucial for pilots and passengers alike. A go-around is a safe and necessary procedure that helps to maintain the highest standards of aviation safety. Whether initiated during an instrument approach or a visual approach, the go-around ensures that the pilot can re-evaluate the situation and attempt the landing again with better conditions.

The term 'go-around' is widely accepted and used to describe this important safety procedure. Pilots, flight attendants, and passengers should be aware of the process and the importance of this maneuver in ensuring safe and successful landings.