Blog 27: Advanced IFR Procedures: Approaches, Holds, and Missed Approaches

Aalisha Sugur
Jun 9
2 min read

“Flying IFR is like reading a complex novel—you have to understand the chapters, anticipate the plot twists, and stay calm during cliffhangers.” — Aalisha, Student Pilot | Princeton Flying School

Diving into IFR (Instrument Flight Rules) procedures felt like stepping into a new aviation universe. The rules, charts, and phraseology can seem overwhelming, but mastering them is essential for safe flying when the skies aren’t friendly. Today, I’ll share my journey understanding advanced IFR maneuvers: instrument approaches, holds, and the dreaded missed approach.

Instrument Approaches: Navigating Without a View

Instrument approaches are your safety net when you can’t see the runway until the last moment. Here’s what I learned:

Types of Approaches:
- ILS (Instrument Landing System): The gold standard, guiding both laterally and vertically.
- RNAV/GPS Approaches: Satellite-based precision with flexible routing.
- VOR and NDB Approaches: Radio-based, older but still essential skills.
Procedure Briefing:Before an approach, I always brief the procedure, waypoints, altitudes, and missed approach instructions—like preparing for a mini-mission.
Stabilized Approach:Maintaining a constant descent rate and airspeed is crucial. At first, flying purely by instruments felt like steering a ghost ship, but focusing on the attitude indicator and vertical speed indicator helped steady my hands.

Holding Patterns: The Airborne Waiting Room

Holds feel like aerial traffic jams, but knowing how to fly them precisely keeps you safe and controlled.

When Are Holds Used?ATC might put you in a hold for traffic, weather, or sequencing.
Flying the Hold:I practice timing inbound and outbound legs accurately, adjusting for wind drift, and maintaining the holding fix using nav aids.
Entry Types:Parallel, teardrop, or direct entries—each with its own entry geometry that can seem as complex as a dance routine.

Missed Approach: Your Safety Bailout

The missed approach is your exit strategy when the runway isn’t in sight at minimums.

Always Have a Plan:Briefing missed approach details before initiating an approach is a rule I never skip.
Executing the Missed Approach:Power full, pitch up to climb attitude, retract flaps as instructed, and follow published missed approach courses.
Calm and Control:It’s easy to feel defeated at a missed approach, but staying calm transforms it into just another part of safe flying.

Tips That Helped Me Master Advanced IFR

Sim Power: Use simulators to practice holds and missed approach routines, which are hard to train on actual flights safely.
Chart Study: Memorize critical frequencies, altitudes, and fix names beforehand.
Ask Questions: Controllers understand students need reminders and clarification—ask away!
Practice Procedures Regularly: Consistency builds muscle memory and confidence.

Final Thoughts: IFR Mastery is a Journey, Not a Destination

Advanced IFR procedures aren’t just tests—they’re your toolkit for conquering the skies in the toughest conditions. With patience and practice, what once seemed like a puzzle becomes your flight’s reliable guide.

Fly safe, fly instrument-rated!

Aalisha - Student Pilot | Drone Certified | Future PPL | Aviation Blogger