Definition
An ATC or chart instruction used on a Copter approach to a VFR heliport, directing the pilot that upon reaching the named Missed Approach Point (MAP), they must either continue to the heliport using visual reference to the surface, or, if the required visual conditions are not met, immediately execute the published missed approach procedure.
Plain English
When you reach the point on the chart called the MAP, you have a choice: if you can see well enough to fly the rest of the way to the heliport by looking outside, do that; if you can't, fly the missed approach right away.
Context Anchor
Seen as a note on certain helicopter instrument approach charts that lead toward a visual-flight heliport instead of directly to a runway or landing pad.
Derivation
MAP stands for Missed Approach Point — the spot on an instrument approach where, if the runway or heliport environment isn't in sight, the pilot must stop the approach and climb away. 'Proceed visually' means continue the flight using outside visual reference rather than instruments.
Why Pilots Care
Prevents pilots from attempting a landing without adequate visual references, reducing the risk of controlled flight into terrain or loss of situational awareness near the heliport.
Grounding Statement
At the named missed approach point, the pilot either has enough outside visual reference to continue, or the published missed approach becomes the correct path to fly.
Intuition Check
MAP here means missed approach point, not a paper map. “Proceed visually” is not permission to press on blindly; it only applies when the pilot has enough outside visual reference to continue safely.
Example Sentence 1
The approach plate stated, 'Proceed visually from JOLEX or conduct the specified missed approach,' so the pilot briefed both options before starting the descent.
Example Sentence 2
The procedure required the crew to proceed visually from the named MAP or conduct the specified missed approach if the heliport was not in sight.