Definition
A notation published on an instrument approach chart indicating that a procedure turn (a course-reversal maneuver used to align an aircraft with the final approach course) is not permitted on that approach. When this notation appears, the pilot must arrive at the initial or intermediate fix already established on a course that allows a straight-in approach, typically via radar vectors, a published feeder route, a holding pattern in lieu of a procedure turn, or a Terminal Arrival Area (TAA) sector.
Plain English
The chart is telling you: don't fly the U-turn maneuver to reverse course on this approach. You're expected to be lined up with the final approach course already.
Context Anchor
Seen as a note on instrument approach charts, including copter GPS approaches, where the approach is not designed for a procedure turn at that location.
Why Pilots Care
The pilot must follow the published track without any course reversal, which affects timing, descent planning, and alignment with the final approach course.
Grounding Statement
This note tells you that the approach path was planned without that turn, so you should not add it on your own.
Intuition Check
Do not read NA as “not applicable” or “optional.” In this chart note, NA means “not authorized”: the procedure turn is not allowed.
Example Sentence 1
The chart showed Procedure Turn NA at the IAF, so we accepted radar vectors to final from approach control.
Example Sentence 2
Because Procedure Turn NA is listed, the pilot begins the descent from the initial fix without any additional maneuvering.