Instrument Rating Checkride Practice Test

Which type of approach can be conducted under IFR while being visually clear of clouds?

1. Missed approach

2. Circular approach

3. Visual approach

4. Contact approach

The correct answer is: Visual approach

A visual approach is conducted under IFR while the pilot maintains visual reference to the ground, allowing for an approach that is not strictly reliant on instruments. This type of approach is designed for circumstances where the pilot can see the destination airport and its surroundings, which clears the way for a more efficient landing process without having to adhere to the traditional instrument approach procedures. In a visual approach, although the flight is still under IFR, it relies on visual references rather than solely on instruments. This provides the pilot with greater flexibility and can expedite the arrival and landing sequence. It is particularly useful when there is good visibility, and the pilot can clearly see the runway. On the other hand, the other types of approaches, such as missed approach, circular approach, and contact approach, have different criteria and purposes. A missed approach is executed when it becomes necessary to discontinue an approach, generally due to lack of visibility or other issues. A circular approach refers to maneuvering to land from a point of reference while maintaining specific altitude, which can often be challenging in IFR conditions. Contact approaches are a type of IFR approach that also require visual reference, but they have different stipulations and are less commonly used.