Go-around

A go-around, also known as a missed approach or rejected landing, is an aborted landing of an aircraft that is on final approach or has already touched down. It is a standard procedure executed by pilots when they determine that conditions are not safe for a successful landing.

Reasons for a Go-Around:

There are numerous reasons why a pilot might initiate a go-around. Some common causes include:

• Unstable Approach: The aircraft is not properly configured for landing, is too high or low, too fast or slow, or not properly aligned with the runway.
• Obstruction on the Runway: Another aircraft, vehicle, or obstacle is present on the runway, preventing a safe landing.
• Wind Shear or Unfavorable Wind Conditions: Sudden changes in wind speed or direction (wind shear) or excessively strong crosswinds can make landing unsafe.
• Mechanical Issues: A malfunction with the aircraft's systems, such as brakes, flaps, or landing gear, may necessitate a go-around.
• Pilot Incapacitation or Error: A pilot may initiate a go-around due to their own error or a sudden onset of illness.
• ATC Instruction: Air Traffic Control (ATC) may instruct the pilot to execute a go-around for reasons such as traffic conflicts or runway unavailability.
• Poor Visibility: Inadequate visibility due to fog, rain, or snow can make a safe landing challenging.

Procedure:

The specific procedures for a go-around vary depending on the aircraft type, airport, and ATC instructions, but generally involve the following steps:

1. Application of Power: The pilot immediately applies full or near-full engine power.
2. Adjustment of Pitch: The aircraft's pitch attitude is adjusted to initiate a climb.
3. Configuration Change: Flaps and landing gear are retracted in a controlled manner, as dictated by the aircraft's operating manual.
4. Communication with ATC: The pilot informs ATC of the go-around, the reason for it, and the pilot's intentions.
5. Following Missed Approach Procedure: The pilot follows the published missed approach procedure for the specific runway, which typically involves climbing to a specific altitude and flying a designated route.

Safety Considerations:

Go-arounds are a crucial safety procedure in aviation. While they may seem alarming to passengers, they are a common and well-practiced maneuver. Pilots are trained to execute go-arounds smoothly and efficiently to ensure the safety of the aircraft and its occupants. Properly executed, a go-around prevents potential accidents and allows the pilot to reassess the situation and attempt another landing or divert to an alternate airport.