Definition
A course-reversal maneuver published as part of an instrument approach procedure, in which the turn pattern, headings, altitudes, and timing or distance limits are specified in advance on the approach chart. The pilot flies the reversal exactly as charted rather than designing one on the spot. Common forms include the procedure turn, the holding-pattern-in-lieu-of-procedure-turn, and the teardrop course reversal.
Plain English
A turn-around maneuver that is already drawn out for you on the approach chart. The chart tells you which way to turn, what heading to fly, how high to be, and how long to fly out before turning back to line up with the final approach course.
Context Anchor
Seen during instrument approaches, especially when using GPS, RNAV, or a flight management system that loads a full published approach procedure.
Derivation
"Preprogrammed" means set up in advance, and "course reversal" means turning around to fly back the other way. Together it signals that the turn-around is built into the published procedure, not improvised by the pilot or assigned by ATC in the moment.
Why Pilots Care
Reduces pilot workload and ensures precise execution of required reversals in complex instrument procedures.
Grounding Statement
Picture approaching the airport from the wrong direction; the preprogrammed course reversal gives the aircraft an organized way to turn around and get lined up.
Intuition Check
“Course” does not mean a class or lesson here; it means the aircraft’s intended flight path. “Preprogrammed” also does not mean the pilot can stop monitoring it; it means the turn pattern is already built into the procedure or navigator.
Example Sentence 1
Cleared for the approach, the pilot flew the preprogrammed course reversal shown on the chart, then turned inbound toward the final approach fix.
Example Sentence 2
Because the procedure included a preprogrammed course reversal, the pilot did not need to manually enter the holding pattern or procedure turn.