Airman Certification Standards
ACS AA.VI.D
Non-precision Approaches
Knowledge
Procedures and limitations associated with a non-precision approach, including the differences between Localizer Performance (LP) and Lateral Navigation (LNAV) approach guidance.
Navigation system displays and annunciations, modes of operation, and Required Navigation Performance (RNP) lateral accuracy values associated with an RNAV (GPS) approach.
Ground-based and satellite-based navigation systems (orientation, course determination, equipment, tests and regulations, interference, appropriate use of navigation data, signal integrity).
A stabilized approach, including energy management concepts.
Risk Management
Deviating from the assigned approach procedure.
Selecting a navigation frequency.
Management of automated navigation and autoflight systems. 41
Aircraft configuration during an approach and missed approach.
An unstable approach, including excessive descent rates.
Deteriorating weather conditions on approach.
Operating below the minimum descent altitude (MDA) without proper visual references.
Skill
Accomplish the non-precision instrument approaches selected by the evaluator.
Establish two-way communications with air traffic control (ATC) appropriate for the phase of flight or approach segment, and use proper communication phraseology.
Select, tune, identify, and confirm the operational status of navigation equipment to be used for the approach.
Comply with all clearances issued by ATC or the evaluator.
Recognize if any flight instrumentation is inaccurate or inoperative, and take appropriate action.
Advise ATC or the evaluator if unable to comply with a clearance.
Coordinate with crew, if applicable, and complete the appropriate checklist(s) in a timely manner.
Establish the appropriate airplane configuration and airspeed considering meteorological and operating conditions.
Maintain altitude ±100 feet, selected heading ±5°, airspeed ±10 knots, and accurately track radials, courses, and bearings, prior to beginning the final approach segment.
Adjust the published MDA/Derived Decision Altitude (DDA) and visibility criteria for the aircraft approach category, as appropriate, for factors that include Notices to Air Missions (NOTAMs), inoperative aircraft or navigation equipment, or inoperative visual aids associated with the landing environment, etc.
Establish a stabilized descent to the appropriate altitude.
For the final approach segment, maintain no more than ¼ scale course deviation indicator (CDI) deflection, airspeed ±5 knots of selected value, and altitude above MDA +50/-0 feet [to the visual descent point (VDP) or missed approach point (MAP)].
Execute 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.
Use a Multi-Function Display (MFD) and other graphical navigation displays, if installed, to monitor position, track wind drift and other parameters to maintain desired flightpath.
Retrieved from ecfr.gov on July 17, 2026.