Flying an 80°/260° procedure turn is a specific maneuver used in Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) approach procedures to achieve a course reversal and often to lose altitude, setting the aircraft up for the inbound approach segment. It's a precise series of turns designed to align the aircraft with the final approach course.
Understanding the 80°/260° Procedure Turn
The 80°/260° procedure turn is a defined method of reversing course during the initial approach segment of an IFR flight. Unlike standard holding patterns or race-track patterns, this maneuver involves two distinct turns in opposite directions, allowing for an efficient and controlled transition onto the inbound track. Its primary purpose is to provide a standardized way for pilots to lose altitude and reposition the aircraft when direct entry into the final approach is not possible or desired.
Step-by-Step Execution of the 80°/260° Turn
Executing an 80°/260° procedure turn requires precise navigation and adherence to the defined steps to ensure the aircraft intercepts the inbound track correctly.
Here’s how to perform this maneuver:
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Fly a Straight Leg with Track Guidance:
- Begin by flying a straight leg outbound from the initial approach fix. This leg must be flown with precise track guidance.
- The duration or extent of this straight leg is typically defined by specific criteria such as:
- A timed leg (e.g., fly outbound for 1 minute).
- Limited by a specific radial from a VOR.
- Limited by a DME (Distance Measuring Equipment) distance from a navigational aid.
- Terminated by reaching a designated fix.
- This initial segment provides the necessary space for the subsequent turns.
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Execute the 80° Turn:
- Upon reaching the specified point or time for the end of the straight leg, make an 80° turn.
- This turn can be executed either to the right or to the left, as specified by the approach procedure chart. The direction is critical for setting up the subsequent maneuver.
- Maintain your altitude or begin a controlled descent if required by the procedure.
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Execute the 260° Turn in the Opposite Direction:
- Immediately following the completion of the 80° turn, commence a 260° turn in the opposite direction of the initial 80° turn.
- For example, if the first turn was 80° to the right, the second turn will be 260° to the left.
- The purpose of this large opposing turn is to allow the aircraft to intercept the inbound track back towards the airport or the next segment of the approach.
- During this turn, pilots continue their descent as appropriate for the approach segment.
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Intercept the Inbound Track:
- The final phase involves rolling out of the 260° turn onto the inbound track.
- Careful lead-in and precise bank control are essential to smoothly intercept and establish the aircraft on the designated inbound course, which typically leads to the final approach fix or the runway.
Key Maneuver Summary
| Step | Action | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| 1st Leg | Fly Straight Outbound | Establish distance for turns |
| 1st Turn | 80° Turn (Right or Left) | Begin course reversal |
| 2nd Turn | 260° Turn (Opposite Direction) | Align for inbound intercept |
| Final | Intercept Inbound Track | Establish aircraft on final approach course |
Key Considerations for Piloting the 80°/260° Turn
- Approach Charts: Always refer to the specific instrument approach chart for the airport and procedure you are flying. These charts will clearly depict the 80°/260° turn, including the direction of turns, altitudes, distances, and any timing requirements.
- Altitude Management: Procedure turns often include mandatory altitude restrictions. Pilots must carefully manage their descent rate to ensure they are at the correct altitude when intercepting the inbound track.
- Wind Correction: Account for wind during the maneuver. Strong winds can significantly affect the ground track, potentially leading to overshooting or undershooting the inbound course if not compensated for.
- Aircraft Performance: Understand your aircraft's turning radius and performance characteristics, especially at different airspeeds and bank angles, to execute the turns smoothly and accurately.
- Situational Awareness: Maintain high situational awareness throughout the maneuver, constantly monitoring navigation instruments, altitude, and airspeed to ensure compliance with the procedure.
The 80°/260° procedure turn is a fundamental component of IFR approach procedures, enabling pilots to safely and efficiently transition from the en-route phase to the final approach. Mastery of this maneuver is crucial for instrument-rated pilots. For further details on IFR approach procedures and initial approach segments, comprehensive resources such as the IVAO Wiki's IFR Approach procedure - Initial approach segment are available for reference.
