A Beginner's Guide to Briefing an IAP on the Fly

Although we diligently plan for each IFR flight and hope to hear the magical words “cleared as filed,” we know that’s not what always happens. Sometimes “as filed” turns into “well, we (ATC) need to change things after all” while you’re en route.

Creating your own step-by-step flow and practicing it is important to improving efficiency and safety, not to mention keeping your flight from exceeding the sweat threshold. Here are things to consider as you think through and create procedures for en-route IFR planning.

Double-check approach plates.
Pilots mix up the ILS and RNAV for the same runway from time to time. Confirm the runway number, type of approach, and other critical details before proceeding. While you’re at it, check the date to be sure you don’t have an expired plate.

Configure the cockpit.

• Program localizers, VORs, and any other NAVAIDs you'll need for the approach.
• Set up your avionics according to the approach requirements.
• Load the approach into your GPS or FMS, and ensure your CDI is set to the correct source.
• Determine if and how you'll use the autopilot.
• If you're uncomfortable hand-flying the approach, consider scheduling practice time with a CFI.

Identify "gotchas.” 
Look for unusual elements or potential pitfalls in the approach. Are there steep descents, tricky missed approach procedures, or confusing hold entries? Plan how you'll handle these before you begin the approach.

Monitor your flight path and glide path.

• Continuously verify your flight path and glide path during the approach.
• Remember to obtain the current altimeter setting early to ensure altitude accuracy.
• Respect the decision altitude (DA) or minimum descent altitude (MDA).
• Plan your descent points and rates carefully to pass through required fixes, especially with step-down altitudes or a non-standard glide slope.

Know the missed approach procedure.
Be fully prepared to execute the missed approach. Brief it just as thoroughly as the approach itself.

Weather factors:

• How will current and forecasted WX conditions affect the stability of your approach?
• If visibility or winds are unfavorable, prepare for the possibility of a missed approach or diversion.

Run through your final approach and landing checklist well before you reach the DA or MDA. Mentally prepare for what you need to see at minimums or before, and go missed if you see anything different. A good rule of thumb followed by some pilots is to assume you’ll go missed until your rollout is complete.

Briefing an IAP en route is a learned skill requiring frequent and recent practice to stay proficient. If you do so, the next time you're handed an unexpected approach, you may just sigh and shake your head at your bad luck rather than getting anxious.

Know Before You Go