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Airport Visual Aids

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I've been doing a lot of night flying recently and can see the VASI / PAPI's from around 15-20NM from the airport. It's pretty cool. Is the correct procedure, to get onto the VASI/PAPI as soon as we see it or do we wait till we are closer to the airport? If so, typically how many miles out?

Thanks

asked Aug 20 '10 at 10:55

RichT%201's gravatar image

RichT 1
669●3●8●30
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I would not follow it more that about 4 nm out. I believe this is a matter of preferance rather than written rule, and I would only do it if I was flying towards and uncontrolled field.

answered Aug 20 '10 at 11:42

Sean%20C.'s gravatar image

Sean C.
766●3●9●26

Although not regulatory, the AIM should be followed as you could be trapped under the FAR called "Preflight Actions" and becoming aware of everything concerning that flight. AIM 2-1-2 specifically states the VASI gives obstruction clearance with 10 degrees either side of the runway centerline and 4NM. Anything past that and it is not guaranteed.

A Riddle CFI and student were killed on approach into Prescott when they followed the VASI farther out than 4NM and ran into the mountains on the approach path to runway 3L/R

(Aug 22 '10 at 17:51) wbeard52 wbeard52's gravatar image
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Asked: Aug 20 '10 at 10:55

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Last updated: Aug 22 '10 at 17:51

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