Definition
A symbol used on instrument approach charts to depict a procedure turn, showing the outbound and inbound courses with arrowheads (barbs) that indicate the direction in which the turn must be made. The pilot may choose any maneuver to reverse course (such as a 45/180, racetrack, or 80/260) provided the turn is completed on the side of the depicted course shown by the barb and within the distance specified.
Plain English
A small arrow shape printed on an approach chart that tells the pilot which side of the course to do the procedure turn on. The barb points to the side where the turn must stay.
Context Anchor
Seen on instrument approach charts when a procedure turn is part of the published approach.
Derivation
A barb is the backward-pointing point on a fish hook or arrow. On the chart, the small angled mark off the arrow looks like that barb, and it points to the side of the course on which the turn must be flown.
Why Pilots Care
Following the barbed arrow keeps the aircraft inside protected airspace and aligned for the final approach course.
Intuition Check
The barbed arrow is not just a decorative arrow or a general direction marker. In this context, it specifically shows the side where the procedure turn is to be made.
Example Sentence 1
The barbed arrow on the approach chart pointed to the north side of the course, so the pilot flew the procedure turn on that side.
Example Sentence 2
After passing the fix, the pilot turned in the direction shown by the barbed arrow to remain in the procedure turn protected area.