Unstable Approaches: Risk Mitigation Policies, Procedures and Best Practice, Third Edition

Unstable Approaches: Risk Mitigation Policies, Procedures and Best Practices, Third Edition, has been produced by CANSO, IATA, IFATCA and IFALPA.

The approach and landing phases of flight accounted for approximately 61 percent of accidents between 2012 and 2016. Unstable approaches were a factor in 16 percent of those approach and landing accidents. The purpose of Unstable Approaches: Risk Mitigation Policies, Procedures and Best Practices is to enhance awareness of the contributing factors and outcomes of unstable approaches, together with some proven prevention strategies.

The document emphasises the importance of pilots, air traffic controllers and airport staff working together along with regulators, training organisations and international trade associations to agree measures and procedures to reduce unstable approaches. This document also acts as a reference against which to review operational policy, procedures and training.

How CANSO Members can use this publication:

• Use it as a reference guide when conducting runway safety initiatives, or when participating with industry partners in regional runway safety efforts
• Promote the material within your own air traffic control workforce, as a valuable tool for understanding the influence of air traffic control clearances on stable approaches
• It can also be used in conjunction with the CANSO Runway Safety app at www.cansosafety.com, which provides tips for identifying and preventing unstable approaches.