Definition
A type of procedure turn used to reverse direction on an instrument approach, in which the aircraft turns 80° away from the inbound course, then immediately reverses into a 260° turn in the opposite direction, rolling out on the inbound course. It accomplishes the same purpose as a 45°/180° procedure turn but completes the reversal in a tighter pattern.
Plain English
A way of turning around to line up with the inbound course on an approach. The pilot turns 80° one way, then immediately swings 260° back the other way, ending up flying the opposite direction on the correct track.
Context Anchor
Seen in instrument approach and procedure turn discussions, especially where a published procedure tells the pilot how to reverse direction before continuing inbound.
Why Pilots Care
Keeps the aircraft inside the protected airspace of the procedure while achieving the required course change without excessive maneuvering.
Grounding Statement
Picture flying away from the airport, making one smaller turn off that path, then a larger turn back around so you are aimed toward the inbound path.
Intuition Check
Do not read 80°/260° as two compass headings. The numbers describe how much to turn: first 80 degrees one way, then 260 degrees back the other way.
Example Sentence 1
After crossing the fix outbound, the pilot flew an 80°/260° course reversal to get established inbound on the final approach course.
Example Sentence 2
ATC cleared the flight for the approach that included an 80°/260° course reversal to join the final segment.