AIM 5-4-24

CVFPs are charted visual approaches established for environmental/noise considerations, and/or when necessary for the safety and efficiency of air traffic operations. The approach charts depict prominent landmarks, courses, and recommended altitudes to specific runways. CVFPs are designed to be used primarily for turbojet aircraft.

These procedures will be used only at airports with an operating control tower.

Most approach charts will depict some NAVAID information which is for supplemental navigational guidance only.

Unless indicating a Class B airspace floor, all depicted altitudes are for noise abatement purposes and are recommended only. Pilots are not prohibited from flying other than recommended altitudes if operational requirements dictate.

When landmarks used for navigation are not visible at night, the approach will be annotated “ PROCEDURE NOT AUTHORIZED AT NIGHT . ”

CVFPs usually begin within 20 flying miles from the airport.

Published weather minimums for CVFPs are based on minimum vectoring altitudes rather than the recommended altitudes depicted on charts.

CVFPs are not instrument approaches and do not have missed approach segments.

ATC will not issue clearances for CVFPs when the weather is less than the published minimum.

ATC will clear aircraft for a CVFP after the pilot reports siting a charted landmark or a preceding aircraft. If instructed to follow a preceding aircraft, pilots are responsible for maintaining a safe approach interval and wake turbulence separation.

Pilots should advise ATC if at any point they are unable to continue an approach or lose sight of a preceding aircraft. Missed approaches will be handled as a go-around.

When conducting visual approaches, pilots are encouraged to use other available navigational aids to assist in positive lateral and vertical alignment with the assigned runway.