What are the recommended actions if the approach becomes unstable and a go-around is required?

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Multiple Choice

What are the recommended actions if the approach becomes unstable and a go-around is required?

When an approach becomes unstable, the priority is to regain controllable flight and a safe path to the runway. The best action is to initiate a go-around, configure the flaps and gear per SOP, maintain a safe airspeed, and re-brief. Starting the go-around gives you a clean climb, with the airplane in the recommended configuration for a stabilized transition. Following the SOP for flaps and gear ensures you’re using the exact settings the airline’s procedure calls for to balance drag, lift, and controllability during the transition. Maintaining a safe airspeed is critical to avoid a stall or loss of elevator authority as you climb and reconfigure. Re-briefing the approach lets the crew reassess weather, runway conditions, and the planned approach profile, so the next attempt can be made with a clear, updated plan. Continuing the approach to minimums doesn’t address the instability and can lead to a unsafe situation near the runway. Descending to a lower altitude while unstable reduces obstacle clearance and control margins. Extending landing gear alone adds drag and does not fix the underlying instability or provide a proper transition path for landing.

When an approach becomes unstable, the priority is to regain controllable flight and a safe path to the runway. The best action is to initiate a go-around, configure the flaps and gear per SOP, maintain a safe airspeed, and re-brief.

Starting the go-around gives you a clean climb, with the airplane in the recommended configuration for a stabilized transition. Following the SOP for flaps and gear ensures you’re using the exact settings the airline’s procedure calls for to balance drag, lift, and controllability during the transition. Maintaining a safe airspeed is critical to avoid a stall or loss of elevator authority as you climb and reconfigure. Re-briefing the approach lets the crew reassess weather, runway conditions, and the planned approach profile, so the next attempt can be made with a clear, updated plan.

Continuing the approach to minimums doesn’t address the instability and can lead to a unsafe situation near the runway. Descending to a lower altitude while unstable reduces obstacle clearance and control margins. Extending landing gear alone adds drag and does not fix the underlying instability or provide a proper transition path for landing.

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