An IFR approach does not always result in landing. Weather can deteriorate, traffic patterns can change, or you might not establish visual contact with the runway in time. Understanding missed approach procedures is critical safety knowledge. The missed approach is not a failure—it is a normal part of instrument flying. ATC and pilots work together to manage these situations systematically.

A missed approach occurs when you do not land the aircraft during an approach and must climb away from the aerodrome to a designated altitude, following published procedures or ATC instructions. Three categories of missed approach exist:

Planned Missed Approach. You are cleared for approach with the explicit understanding that you will not attempt to land but will instead execute the published missed approach procedure. This happens when weather is forecast to improve within a certain timeframe, or when you are conducting a low approach to check runway conditions. You receive a specific clearance beforehand stating your intentions.

Possible Missed Approach. You are cleared to land, but ATC briefed you that if you do not establish visual contact by a certain point, you will execute the missed approach. This is the most common situation. You plan to land but remain prepared to go around. If you do not see the runway by the decision point, you execute the missed approach immediately without further clearance.

Unplanned Missed Approach. You are lined up to land, have been cleared, and are descending toward the runway when something unexpected occurs—a vehicle crosses the runway, an aircraft is still on the surface, or you encounter wind shear. You must go around immediately and declare the missed approach to ATC.