Airman Certification Standards
ACS AA.VI.G
Circling Approach
Knowledge
Elements related to circling approach procedures and limitations, including approach categories and related airspeed restrictions.
Risk Management
Prescribed circling approach procedures.
Executing a circling approach at night or with marginal visibility.
Losing visual contact with an identifiable part of the airport.
Management of automated navigation and autoflight systems.
Control of altitude, airspeed, and distance while circling.
Low altitude maneuvering, including stall, spin, or controlled flight into terrain (CFIT).
Executing a missed approach after the MAP while circling.
Skill
Comply with the circling approach procedure considering turbulence, windshear, and the maneuvering capability and approach category of the aircraft.
Confirm the direction of traffic and adhere to all restrictions and instructions issued by ATC or the evaluator.
Coordinate with crew, if applicable, and complete the appropriate checklist(s) in a timely manner. 45
Establish the approach and landing configuration. Maintain a stabilized approach and a descent rate that ensures arrival at the MDA, or the preselected circling altitude above the MDA, prior to the missed approach point.
Maintain airspeed ±5 knots, desired heading/track ±5°, and altitude +100/-0 feet until descending below the MDA or the preselected circling altitude above the MDA.
Visually maneuver to a base or downwind leg appropriate for the landing runway and environmental conditions.
If a missed approach occurs, turn in the appropriate direction using the correct procedure and appropriately configure the airplane.
Retrieved from ecfr.gov on July 17, 2026.