Definition
An automatic flight control system mode that, when engaged, commands the aircraft to abandon an approach and climb away from the runway or landing area. In a helicopter, selecting go around mode typically pitches the nose to a preset attitude, applies a target climb power or collective setting, and disengages approach guidance so the aircraft transitions from a descending approach profile into a stabilized climb.
Plain English
A button or switch on the autopilot that tells the aircraft to stop the approach and climb away. Once selected, the aircraft automatically pitches up and climbs instead of continuing toward landing.
Context Anchor
Seen in helicopter instrument approach procedures, missed approach discussions, and helicopter flight manual limitations for autopilot or flight director use.
Derivation
From the everyday phrase 'go around,' meaning to come back around for another try. In aviation it became the standard term for breaking off an approach and re-entering the pattern or executing a missed approach. The mode is named after the action it triggers.
Why Pilots Care
Reduces workload and ensures consistent climb performance when aborting an approach in low visibility or unstable conditions.
Grounding Statement
G/A mode is the automation's switch from “continue the approach” to “climb away now.”
Intuition Check
“Go around” does not mean casually circling the airport here. In this context, it means rejecting the approach or landing and climbing away; G/A mode is the automation mode for that action.
Example Sentence 1
When the pilot saw traffic on the helipad, she pressed the go around button and the autopilot pitched up into a climb.
Example Sentence 2
At decision height with no runway in sight, the crew selected go around (G/A) mode and began the published missed approach.