Definition
A maneuver prescribed when it is necessary to reverse direction to establish the aircraft inbound on an intermediate or final approach course. The maneuver is described on the approach chart and consists of an outbound leg, a turn through more than 90 degrees, and a return turn to intercept the inbound course. The point at which the turn may be commenced and the type and rate of turn are left to the discretion of the pilot, but the maneuver must be completed within the distance and at the minimum altitude specified on the approach chart.
Plain English
A planned course-reversal during an instrument approach. You fly outbound, turn around in a specific way shown on the chart, and roll out heading back toward the runway on the published approach course.
Context Anchor
Seen on instrument approach charts and heard in approach clearances when a course reversal may be required before continuing inbound.
Why Pilots Care
Ensures the aircraft is properly aligned for a safe approach and landing, preventing disorientation or deviation from the intended path.
Intuition Check
A procedure turn is not just any turn made during a procedure. It is a specific, charted course-reversal maneuver used to line up with the inbound approach course.
Example Sentence 1
Cleared for the approach, the pilot flew outbound, completed the procedure turn, and rolled out established on the final approach course.
Example Sentence 2
The approach plate specified a procedure turn at the intermediate fix to establish the aircraft on the final approach segment.