Definition
That point of a procedure turn maneuver where course reversal has been completed and an aircraft is established inbound on the intermediate approach segment or final approach course. A report of procedure turn inbound is normally used by ATC as a position report for separation purposes.
Plain English
The moment during an instrument approach when the pilot has finished turning the airplane around and is now flying back toward the airport on the published approach course.
Context Anchor
Used during instrument approaches, especially when a pilot reports position to air traffic control after completing the procedure turn.
Derivation
Procedure comes from a Latin word meaning “to go forward” or “to proceed.” Inbound means “bound toward” something. Together, the phrase points to the part of the planned approach where the turn-around is done and the aircraft is proceeding toward the landing area.
Why Pilots Care
Confirms the aircraft is on the correct final heading and course after the reversal, allowing safe descent and alignment without overshooting or losing situational awareness.
Intuition Check
Do not read “inbound” here as simply “pointing generally toward the airport.” In this phrase, it means the procedure turn is complete and the aircraft is on the published inbound approach path.
Example Sentence 1
Cessna Three Four Bravo, report procedure turn inbound.
Example Sentence 2
The approach plate showed a 45-degree angle for the procedure turn inbound at the final approach fix.