Instrument Rating Checkride Practice Test

Which situation does NOT require a procedure turn?

1. A straight in approach

2. A holding pattern

3. A radar vectored final approach

4. A missed approach

The correct answer is: A missed approach

The scenario in which a procedure turn is not required is during a missed approach. A missed approach occurs when an aircraft is unable to land at an airport due to various reasons, such as weather conditions, runway occupancy, or an unstable approach. Instead of executing a procedure turn, the pilot follows a specific missed approach procedure, which guides them to an alternate route or to re-enter the approach procedure at an appropriate point. In contrast, a straight-in approach does not involve a procedure turn because the aircraft is aligned with the runway from the beginning of the approach. A holding pattern is often used to delay an aircraft's landing and involves a specific procedure that does not include a turn; rather, the aircraft will fly a predefined path. When being radar vectored for a final approach, turns may be directly given by air traffic control to set the aircraft on the final approach course, eliminating the need for a procedure turn. Thus, the specific nature of a missed approach distinctly marks it as the situation that does not require a procedure turn.