Definition
The section of the Federal Aviation Regulations that specifies the conditions under which a pilot operating an aircraft on an instrument approach may descend below the Decision Altitude (DA), Decision Height (DH), or Minimum Descent Altitude (MDA). It requires that the aircraft be continuously in a position from which a normal descent to landing can be made using normal maneuvers, that the flight visibility is not less than the visibility prescribed in the approach procedure, and that at least one of a defined list of visual references for the intended runway is distinctly visible and identifiable to the pilot.
Plain English
It's the rule that says when a pilot flying an instrument approach in low visibility is allowed to keep descending toward the runway. To go below the published minimum altitude, the pilot must be in a position to land normally, must have the required flight visibility, and must clearly see at least one approved visual cue from the runway environment.
Context Anchor
Seen in instrument approach procedures, especially when deciding whether to continue below the published minimum altitude or begin a missed approach.
Derivation
14 CFR means Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations, the part of U.S. federal law covering aeronautics. Part 91 contains the General Operating and Flight Rules. Section 91.175 is titled 'Takeoff and landing under IFR,' and paragraph (c) is the specific subsection addressing operations below DA/DH or MDA.
Why Pilots Care
It defines the exact conditions under which a pilot may legally and safely descend below approach minimums, directly affecting go/no-go decisions in low-visibility conditions.
Grounding Statement
At minimums, this rule answers the practical question: “Do I have what I need to continue down and land, or must I go missed?”
Intuition Check
Do not read this as just a paperwork reference. In flight, 14 CFR Part 91.175(c) is the actual rule that controls whether you may continue below minimums.
Example Sentence 1
At minimums, the captain confirmed the approach lights were in sight and that the requirements of 14 CFR 91.175(c) were met before continuing the descent to landing.
Example Sentence 2
During the copter approach briefing, the crew reviewed the conditions listed in 14 CFR Part 91.175(c) for continuing below minimums.