Definition
A technique for flying the final approach segment of a non-precision instrument approach as a continuous, stabilized descent from the final approach fix to a point about 50 feet above the landing runway threshold, without level-offs at step-down altitudes or at the minimum descent altitude (MDA). The descent is flown at a constant rate matched to groundspeed so the aircraft arrives at the decision point already configured and stabilized for landing or a missed approach.
Plain English
Instead of descending in steps and then flying level at the lowest altitude until you see the runway, you fly one smooth, steady descent all the way down — like a normal precision approach. If you don't see what you need at the decision point, you go around.
Context Anchor
Seen in instrument approach training, approach briefings, and vertical navigation discussions for nonprecision instrument approaches.
Derivation
The name describes the technique literally: 'continuous descent' (no level segments) on the 'final approach' (the last leg before landing). The phrase was adopted by ICAO and the FAA to distinguish this stabilized method from the older 'dive and drive' technique.
Why Pilots Care
A CDFA reduces the chance of a destabilized approach, lowers go-around rates, and improves safety on non-precision approaches.
Analogy
Think of it like a smooth ramp instead of a staircase. A staircase makes you stop and start at each step; a ramp lets you walk down in one steady motion.
Grounding Statement
Picture the airplane following one smooth downhill path toward the runway instead of moving down a staircase.
Intuition Check
“Continuous” does not mean “keep descending no matter what.” It means the descent is planned to be smooth, while still obeying all published altitude limits and missed-approach requirements.
Example Sentence 1
Our company procedures require a CDFA on the VOR approach, so we briefed a constant 700-foot-per-minute descent from the final approach fix to the missed approach point.
Example Sentence 2
Using CDFA on the localizer approach kept the aircraft on the proper descent path without any level segments.