Definition
The segment of an instrument approach procedure that runs from the Final Approach Fix (FAF), where the final descent toward the runway begins, to the Missed Approach Point (MAP), where the pilot must either have the runway environment in sight and continue to land or execute the published missed approach. On non-precision approaches, this segment is typically flown at a published time and groundspeed to determine when the MAP is reached.
Plain English
It's the final straight-in part of an instrument approach. You start at one fix, fly toward the runway, and have until a specific point to see the runway. If you don't see it by that point, you have to climb away and try something else.
Context Anchor
Seen on instrument approach charts, timing tables, and training examples for nonprecision timed approaches, especially when timing from a holding fix or final approach fix.
Why Pilots Care
Correct timing and descent on this segment ensures the aircraft arrives at the MAP at the proper altitude and position for a safe landing or missed approach.
Grounding Statement
Start the clock at the FAF; when the correct FAF to MAP time runs out, you are at the MAP for timing purposes.
Intuition Check
FAF to MAP is not a clearance and not a command to continue. It names the measured final approach interval between two points, and on timed approaches it tells you how long that interval should take.
Example Sentence 1
Crossing the FAF inbound, the pilot started the timer to track the FAF to MAP segment at the published groundspeed.
Example Sentence 2
During the FAF to MAP segment the aircraft descended at 500 feet per minute to reach minimums.