What is Decision Altitude (DA) on a precision approach?

What is Decision Altitude (DA) on a precision approach?

• A. The height at which the pilot must decide to descend
• B. The altitude at which a missed approach must be initiated
• C. The altitude where a pilot must decide to land or execute a missed approach
• D. The altitude for initiating the final descent

Answer: (C)

Decision Altitude (DA) is a specific altitude that plays a critical role during a precision approach to landing. At this altitude, the pilot must make a crucial decision: either to continue the descent and land, given that the visibility and runway conditions are sufficient, or to execute a missed approach if the necessary visual references are not established. This decision is significant because it directly impacts the safety and successful landing of the aircraft. A clear understanding of the DA ensures that pilots are well-prepared to act appropriately based on the visual cues available to them at that moment. The correct answer encapsulates these key elements of a precision approach, highlighting that the DA is not just a point of descent or a routine height, but a decisive moment for landing safety.

Decision Altitude (DA) is a specific altitude that plays a critical role during a precision approach to landing. At this altitude, the pilot must make a crucial decision: either to continue the descent and land, given that the visibility and runway conditions are sufficient, or to execute a missed approach if the necessary visual references are not established.

This decision is significant because it directly impacts the safety and successful landing of the aircraft. A clear understanding of the DA ensures that pilots are well-prepared to act appropriately based on the visual cues available to them at that moment.

The correct answer encapsulates these key elements of a precision approach, highlighting that the DA is not just a point of descent or a routine height, but a decisive moment for landing safety.