Instrument flying is mostly predictable and routine, but these 5 instrument approaches are anything but that.
Unlike many approaches, the VOR/DME into Runway 15 at KMTN is one big DME arc. Each fix along the approach is a DME radial, and the final approach course is constantly curving.
The procedure turn for this approach is flown at 8,100 feet, and you only get to descend 60 feet to an MDA of 8,040 feet. The missed approach point is 5.2 NM from the runway, and you follow the fly visual segment from the MAP to the runway.
The localizer approach into Aspen requires pilots to chop and drop nearly 1,900 feet in just 3.1NM. The prescribed approach angle is 6.59 degrees. It terminates with a missed approach that turns you onto a remotely located mountaintop localizer for a back-course departure, through a valley, to the waypoint LINDZ.
The RNAV into Anaktuvuk has extremely high 4,000 foot AGL minimums, which makes sense considering the terrain surrounding the airport. Its single runway (02/20) is gravel, making it one of just a few unpaved airports in the country with published instrument approaches.
The lowest minimums for this curving approach (491 foot DA) require RNP precision of 0.11 miles. Plus, there's prohibited airspace P-56A just .3 NM north of the final approach course.
What other unique instrument approaches are out there? Tell us about them in the comments below.
Whether you're starting your instrument training or brushing up for your next flight, this course gives you the knowledge, confidence, and flexibility to be a great instrument pilot.
