How should you respond to a high-energy approach or a stabilized approach that is not achievable?

How should you respond to a high-energy approach or a stabilized approach that is not achievable?

• A. Go around, reassess configuration and altitude, and re-establish a stabilized approach from a safe position
• B. Push for a late touchdown regardless of energy
• C. Continue the approach at a higher-than-normal sink rate
• D. Cancel the approach and divert to uncontrolled field immediately

Answer: (A)

When you face a high-energy state or an approach you cannot stabilize, the proper move is to execute a go-around and reset from a safe position. Stabilized approaches are designed so you’re at the correct airspeed, on the right flight path, and in the landing configuration with a controlled descent rate. If you can’t achieve that, continuing the approach increases the risk of overshoot, a high-energy landing, or loss of control near the ground. Going around gives you the opportunity to establish the proper energy state and configuration again, climb safely, and re-enter the approach from a altitude and position that allows a stable descent. During a go-around, apply full power smoothly, establish a positive climb rate, maintain coordinated flight, and adjust pitch and configuration as you climb. Reassess your energy, altitude, and configuration, then re-enter the approach at a safe altitude and speed to re-establish a stabilized approach before attempting another landing.

When you face a high-energy state or an approach you cannot stabilize, the proper move is to execute a go-around and reset from a safe position. Stabilized approaches are designed so you’re at the correct airspeed, on the right flight path, and in the landing configuration with a controlled descent rate. If you can’t achieve that, continuing the approach increases the risk of overshoot, a high-energy landing, or loss of control near the ground. Going around gives you the opportunity to establish the proper energy state and configuration again, climb safely, and re-enter the approach from a altitude and position that allows a stable descent.

During a go-around, apply full power smoothly, establish a positive climb rate, maintain coordinated flight, and adjust pitch and configuration as you climb. Reassess your energy, altitude, and configuration, then re-enter the approach at a safe altitude and speed to re-establish a stabilized approach before attempting another landing.