What does RA mean on approach plate?
The minimums (which on any ILS approach also means the missed approach point) on a CAT II ILS are predicated on a radio altimeter altitude or RA. Minimums are usually around one hundred feet above touchdown.
What is aircraft approach category based on?
reference landing speed
Background: Aircraft approach category means a grouping of aircraft based on a Vref (reference landing speed), if specified, or if Vref is not specified, 1.3 Vso (stalling speed or minimum steady flight speed in the landing configuration), both at the maximum certificated landing weight.
What’s the minimum for a CAT II approach?
Minimums are usually around one hundred feet above touchdown. A CAT II or CAT III approach is legally the captain’s approach, meaning that he or she is in charge of conducting the approach and making the decision to land or miss.
How are approach categories determined in an airplane?
Approach Categories. Your approach category deals with more than just the circling approach. It determines your maximum speeds, maneuvering airspace, and obstacle clearance on approach as well as missed approach. It is always based on your maximum certificated landing weight, though that can be changed. The speed that is used might be different
When do you use minimums for approach categories?
If it is necessary to operate at a speed in excess of the upper limit of the speed range for an aircraft’s category, the minimums for the higher category must be used. For example, an airplane which fits into Category B, but is circling to land at a speed of 145 knots, must use the approach Category D minimums.
When to use Category A or B approach?
If your aircraft is Category A, should you always use those minimums? According to FAR 97.3, an aircraft’s approach category is based on a published speed called Vref. It’s the approximate speed for flying a stabilized final approach.