Definition
The path a pilot must fly after executing a missed approach on an instrument approach procedure, depicted on the approach chart as a dashed line showing the required course, turns, climb, and route to the missed approach holding fix.
Plain English
The exact route you fly when you can't land from an instrument approach and have to climb away. It's drawn on the approach chart as a dashed line so you know where to go.
Context Anchor
Seen on the plan view of an instrument approach chart, where it shows the direction and path to follow after deciding not to land.
Derivation
Missed approach' means the approach was not completed to a landing. 'Track' here means the path over the ground the aircraft is required to follow. Together: the ground path flown after a missed approach.
Why Pilots Care
It provides a safe, obstacle-cleared path away from the airport when a landing cannot be completed.
Intuition Check
Do not read “missed approach” as a mistake; it is a planned procedure for safely not landing. Also, “track” means path over the ground, not simply heading.
Example Sentence 1
When the runway didn't come into view at minimums, the pilot began the climb and followed the missed approach track to the holding fix.
Example Sentence 2
Following the missed approach track ensured the aircraft remained clear of terrain during the climb.