Definition
The point on an instrument approach procedure at which, if the required visual references for the intended runway are not distinctly visible, the pilot must immediately execute the published missed approach procedure. On a non-precision approach it is defined by a fix, time, or distance from the final approach fix; on a precision or approach with vertical guidance it is reached at the decision altitude or decision height.
Plain English
The exact spot on an approach where you must decide: either you can see the runway and land, or you go around. If you cannot see what you need, you stop descending and fly the published escape route.
Context Anchor
Seen on instrument approach charts and used during the final part of an instrument approach, when the pilot decides whether to land or begin the missed approach.
Derivation
Missed refers to aborting the landing attempt, approach describes the final descent segment, and point indicates the precise published location; the combined term comes from standardized instrument flight procedures that ensure consistent safety actions.
Why Pilots Care
Reaching this point without suitable visual references requires immediate execution of the missed approach to avoid terrain, obstacles, or unstable landing conditions.
Grounding Statement
At the missed approach point, the approach has reached its limit: either the landing can be safely continued, or the pilot must climb away and follow the missed approach instructions.
Intuition Check
“Missed” does not mean the pilot made a mistake or forgot something. Here, a “missed approach” means the landing attempt is not being completed, so the pilot follows the planned climb-away procedure.
Example Sentence 1
Reaching the missed approach point without seeing the runway environment, the pilot pitched up, applied full power, and began the published missed approach.
Example Sentence 2
Timing from the final approach fix showed we had reached the missed approach point, prompting an immediate turn and climb away from the airport.