Final Approach Area

The final approach area is the protected airspace defined around the final approach course of an instrument approach procedure, designed to provide obstacle clearance for aircraft executing the approach within specified lateral and vertical limits. Aircraft operating within the final approach area are guaranteed obstacle clearance if they remain within the designated boundaries.

Primary and Secondary Areas

The final approach area is divided into primary and secondary areas. The primary area provides full obstacle clearance. The secondary area provides a reduced clearance buffer that diminishes to zero at the outer boundary. Aircraft are expected to remain within the primary area by tracking the localizer or final approach course accurately.

Related Terms

See also: Final Approach, ILS, Non-Precision Approach.