14 CFR 91.175 — Takeoff and Landing Under IFR
Rules for when a pilot may descend below MDA/DA on an instrument approach, including required flight visibility and visual references.
Regulation Text
No person may operate an aircraft below the prescribed MDA or continue an approach below the authorized DA/DH unless: the aircraft is continuously in a position from which a descent to a landing can be made; the required flight visibility is met; and at least one of the following visual references for the intended runway is distinctly visible: approach light system, threshold, threshold markings, threshold lights, REIL, VASI, touchdown zone, touchdown zone markings, touchdown zone lights, runway, or runway markings/lights.
Note: This is an excerpt. Refer to the full regulation in eCFR for the complete text.
Plain-English Explanation
When flying an instrument approach, you cannot go below the minimum altitude (MDA for non-precision, DA for precision approaches) unless three conditions are met: you can make a normal descent to land, you have the required visibility, and you can see at least one of the specified visual references (runway, approach lights, VASI, etc.). If you see approach lights but nothing else, you can descend to 100 feet above touchdown zone elevation but no lower. This regulation determines every go/no-go decision on an instrument approach.
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Related Regulations
14 CFR 91.169 — IFR Flight Plan: Information Required
Specifies IFR flight plan requirements and the conditions under which an alternate airport must be listed.
§91.16714 CFR 91.167 — Fuel Requirements for Flight in IFR Conditions
IFR fuel: enough to fly to destination, then to alternate (if required), then 45-minute reserve at normal cruising speed.
§91.12314 CFR 91.123 — Compliance with ATC Clearances and Instructions
Pilots must comply with ATC clearances and instructions when operating in controlled airspace, unless an emergency requires deviation.
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