In aviation, the start of climb at missed approach, commonly abbreviated as SOC, refers to the point at which an aircraft initiates a climb after performing a missed approach procedure. A missed approach occurs when an aircraft is unable to land safely during an approach and must discontinue the landing attempt. This can happen due to various reasons such as poor weather conditions, runway obstructions, or any other factors that may compromise the safety of the landing.
The start of climb at missed approach is a critical moment in aviation as it marks the transition from the approach phase to the climb phase. It is essential for pilots to accurately execute the missed approach procedure and initiate the climb promptly to ensure the safety of the aircraft and its occupants.
The Importance of the Start of Climb at Missed Approach
When an aircraft executes a missed approach, it is crucial to initiate the climb promptly to avoid any potential obstacles or conflicts with other traffic in the vicinity. The start of climb at missed approach is typically defined by specific criteria outlined in the missed approach procedure for a particular airport or instrument approach procedure.
One of the key aspects of the start of climb at missed approach is the need to achieve a positive rate of climb as quickly as possible. This is important to ensure the aircraft gains altitude and clears any obstacles in the departure path, such as buildings, terrain features, or radio towers. The specific climb gradient required will depend on the airport and approach procedure being used, with different airports and approaches having varying requirements.
For example, consider an aircraft executing a missed approach at an airport with a standard missed approach climb gradient requirement of 200 feet per nautical mile. If the aircraft is flying at a groundspeed of 120 knots (roughly 138 miles per hour), it would need to achieve a climb rate of at least 400 feet per minute to meet the climb gradient requirement.
The start of climb at missed approach is also critical from an air traffic control perspective. When an aircraft declares a missed approach, it must communicate its intentions to ATC and follow the specified missed approach procedure to ensure separation from other aircraft in the vicinity. Initiating the climb promptly allows for an efficient transition and minimizes the risk of any potential conflicts or deviations from the assigned flight path.
Executing the Start of Climb at Missed Approach
The start of climb at missed approach procedure is typically outlined in the pilot’s operating handbook or aircraft flight manual for a specific aircraft type, as well as in the relevant instrument approach procedure charts or plates. These procedures provide the necessary guidance for pilots to safely execute a missed approach and initiate the climb phase.
During the missed approach procedure, the pilot will follow a predetermined path, usually consisting of specific headings, altitudes, and any necessary radio frequency changes. The start of climb at missed approach is typically identified by reaching a specified altitude or passing a specific geographical point, which varies depending on the airport and approach being flown.
Once the start of climb at missed approach is reached, the pilot will adjust the aircraft’s pitch attitude and power settings according to the climb power settings specified in the aircraft’s performance charts. The pilot will also retract any previously extended flaps or landing gear to optimize the aircraft’s climb performance and reduce drag.
It is important for pilots to maintain situational awareness during this critical phase of flight, monitoring the aircraft’s vertical speed, altitude, and heading to ensure a smooth and safe climb. Additionally, pilots must remain vigilant for any potential obstacles or conflicting traffic in the vicinity and take appropriate actions to avoid them.
Overall, the start of climb at missed approach is a precise and controlled maneuver that requires pilots to adhere to specific procedures and guidelines to ensure the safety of the aircraft and its occupants. Proper execution of the missed approach procedure and prompt initiation of the climb are essential to minimize the risk and successfully transition from the approach phase to the climb phase.