Definition
A symbol or notation on an instrument approach chart, shown as the letters 'NoPT,' indicating that a procedure turn is not authorized when the pilot is established on that particular route or segment of the approach. The course alignment and altitude are already suitable for the final approach, so the reversal maneuver is neither required nor permitted.
Plain English
A note on an approach chart telling the pilot they should not fly the turnaround maneuver normally used to line up with the final approach course. They are already lined up properly, so they continue straight in.
Context Anchor
Seen on instrument approach charts, often on routes that already line the aircraft up properly for the approach.
Why Pilots Care
It prevents unnecessary maneuvering that could conflict with terrain, traffic, or ATC instructions.
Intuition Check
Do not read this as “no turning at all.” It means do not fly the specific course-reversal maneuver called a procedure turn.
Example Sentence 1
Because the arrival route was marked NoPT, the pilot proceeded directly to the final approach fix without executing a course reversal.
Example Sentence 2
Cleared for the VOR approach NoPT, the aircraft maintains its inbound heading without reversing course.