Instrument Rating Checkride Practice Test

What is indicated by the transition from the glide slope to visual flight?

1. Decision height

2. Touchdown zone elevation

3. Glidepath altitude

4. Final approach fix

The correct answer is: Decision height

The transition from the glide slope to visual flight is indicated by the decision height. This is an essential part of the instrument approach procedure, as the decision height defines the altitude at which the pilot must decide whether to continue the approach or perform a missed approach. Once the aircraft reaches this altitude, the pilot should be able to establish visual contact with the landing environment, which is crucial for completing a safe landing. If visual reference is not obtained at the decision height, the pilot must execute the missed approach procedure to ensure flight safety. This threshold allows pilots to transition from relying solely on instrument references to visual references, which is critical in managing the approach and landing phases of flight. In summary, decision height is the key point that signifies the moment when visual conditions should be met to proceed safely to landing.