“Expect the Visual Approach? – Pros & Cons to Flying Approaches in VFR Conditions”
September 24, 2022 | By Mercer Clark
An instrument rating gives a pilot many opportunities, but more importantly gives the pilot a safer method by which to fly from airport to airport. I have come to learn my preference for all flights is to be on an IFR (Instrument Flight Rules) flight plan – regardless of weather conditions or complicated airspace. The main reasons are: traffic & weather avoidance, communication with ATC along my route, and priority over other aircraft. Eventually, a pilot will find himself on an IFR flight plan approaching their destination in VFR conditions. More times than not, the call from ATC will be “Expect the Visual Approach” after confirming you have the weather at your destination. Question is do you accept a visual clearance or request an approach?
I’ll preface this discussion of visual approaches vs. instrument approaches with consideration that the complexity of the airport, airspace, traffic, terrain, and other factors matter when choosing your approach method in VFR conditions. The ILS or LOC RWY 6 instrument approach procedure into Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport (KBHM) is an example that speaks to this and also one I am familiar with. An immediate con to flying this approach in visual conditions would be extra time added to the trip, although minimal. In visual conditions, when faced with the option of flying the visual approach for runway 6 vs. the ILS into runway 6, the ILS is a much better choice with potential hazards from traffic, but also from towers. As you can see on this particular approach, there are multiple towers ranging from 1649’ to 2049’. On the segment of the approach from the Brookwood VORTAC (OKW) to MCDEN Initial Approach Fix at 2700’ down to 2200’, you will pass these towers off your right wing – surprisingly close to your approach path by visual standards. Although just below your glidepath, I would classify these towers as a factor when flying visual.
A case for complacency of course can be avoided when flying VFR by studying airport diagrams – and even approach plates. However, an instrument pilot that has gotten his rating ought to put it to use! Go out, and fly those approaches. Maintaining a habit of flying instrument approaches, especially at night, after a log day or flying, or even just at a busy airport could just save you from an honest mistake. Instrument Approach Procedures were built for a reason and I believe they add safety to those smooth descents into your destinations.
Mercer Clark
Mercer Clark is a commercial, instrument-rated Bonanza pilot, an avid aviator and member of the AOPA and American Bonanza Society.