NCAA Instrument Rating Theory cheat sheet
NCAA Instrument Rating Theory · Keep the key ideas within reach.
Instrument Approach Procedures and IFR Operations
Precision approach: ILS, GLS, or PAR with vertical guidance; non-precision approach: VOR, NDB, LOC, RNAV LNAV, or circling with no vertical guidance.
Decision altitude (DA) is used on precision approaches; minimum descent altitude (MDA) is used on non-precision approaches; the missed approach point (MAP) must be identified.
Approach lighting systems: ALSF-2, ALSF-1, SSALR, MALSR; the approach lighting system aids transition from instrument to visual reference.
Missed approach: climb to published altitude, follow the published track, and notify ATC; do not descend below MDA/DA until visual reference is established.
Circling approach: remain within the published circling radius (e.g., Category C 1.7 NM at 100 kt); maintain visual contact with the runway environment.
Stabilised approach criteria: by 1,000 ft AGL in IMC, be on the correct track, at the correct speed, and in the landing configuration; otherwise go around.
RNAV (GPS) approach minima: LPV provides DA typically 200 ft above TDZE; LNAV provides MDA typically 300-400 ft above TDZE; LNAV/VNAV provides vertical guidance.