Definition
The missed approach point is a specific point on an instrument approach procedure at which, if the required visual references for the intended runway are not in sight or the aircraft is not in a position to land safely, the pilot must execute the published missed approach procedure. It is identified on the approach chart and may be defined by a fix, a navigation aid, a DME distance, a GPS waypoint, or by timing from the final approach fix.
Plain English
It's the point during an instrument approach where you must decide: if you can see the runway and can land safely, continue; if not, you must climb away and fly the published go-around procedure.
Context Anchor
Seen on instrument approach charts and in approach guidance, including area arrival and RNAV approach procedures.
Why Pilots Care
Reaching the MAP without landing criteria met requires immediate execution of the missed approach to avoid unsafe descent below minimums.
Grounding Statement
At the missed approach point, the approach changes from “continue if safe” to “climb and follow the missed approach” unless the landing can be made safely.
Intuition Check
“Missed” does not mean the pilot made a mistake. It means the approach did not continue to a landing, so the published escape path is used.
Example Sentence 1
At the missed approach point the runway environment was not in sight, so the pilot began the published missed approach.
Example Sentence 2
The approach plate showed the MAP coinciding with the decision altitude on the ILS.