JO 7110.65 — Air Traffic Control

JO 7110.65 5-11-4

DESCENT INSTRUCTIONS

This reproduces published FAA reference text for study. It does not replace the current official FAA publication or regulation.

When an aircraft reaches the descent point, issue one of the following as appropriate:

REFERENCE-

FAA Order JO 7110.65, Para 5-12-10 , Elevation Failure.

Unless a descent restriction exists, advise the aircraft to descend to the MDA. PHRASEOLOGY-

(Number)

MILES FROM RUNWAY/AIRPORT/HELIPORT. DESCEND TO YOUR MINIMUM DESCENT ALTITUDE.

When a descent restriction exists, specify the prescribed restriction altitude. When the aircraft has passed the altitude limiting point, advise to continue descent to MDA. PHRASEOLOGY-

(Number)

MILES FROM RUNWAY/AIRPORT/HELIPORT. DESCEND AND MAINTAIN (restriction altitude).

DESCEND TO YOUR MINIMUM DESCENT ALTITUDE.

Retrieved from ecfr.gov on July 20, 2026.