Which factor is NOT included in determining the minima for commencing an approach?

Which factor is NOT included in determining the minima for commencing an approach?

• A. Aircraft weight
• B. HAT
• C. Vis
• D. RVR

Answer: (A)

Minima for starting an instrument approach are determined by the path design, obstacle clearance, and the visibility needed to safely fly and complete the approach. The height element, such as height above touchdown, along with the required visibility (either flight visibility or runway visual range), sets the thresholds you must meet to begin and continue the approach. These factors ensure you can see and follow the published descent path to safely reach the runway. Aircraft weight is not part of those published minima. Weight affects performance like approach speed and stopping distance, but the standard minima are defined to apply regardless of the aircraft’s weight, focusing on visibility and altitude constraints instead.

Minima for starting an instrument approach are determined by the path design, obstacle clearance, and the visibility needed to safely fly and complete the approach. The height element, such as height above touchdown, along with the required visibility (either flight visibility or runway visual range), sets the thresholds you must meet to begin and continue the approach. These factors ensure you can see and follow the published descent path to safely reach the runway.

Aircraft weight is not part of those published minima. Weight affects performance like approach speed and stopping distance, but the standard minima are defined to apply regardless of the aircraft’s weight, focusing on visibility and altitude constraints instead.