Definition
On an instrument approach chart, the profile view is the side-on diagram showing the vertical path of the approach, including altitudes at each fix, descent gradients, the final approach fix, the missed approach point, and the missed approach procedure depicted as a climbing path away from the runway.
Plain English
It is the part of the approach chart that shows the approach from the side, so you can see how high you should be at each point as you descend toward the runway.
Context Anchor
Seen in Instrument Flying Handbook diagrams that explain aircraft attitude and movement from the side.
Derivation
Profile comes from the Italian profilo, meaning a side outline or silhouette. On an approach chart it serves the same purpose: a sideways outline of the approach, showing height against distance.
Why Pilots Care
It lets the pilot confirm the correct altitude and descent rate at each fix, preventing descent below minimums or unstable approaches.
Intuition Check
A profile view is not a personal profile or a complete flight plan. Here it means a side view, like looking at the airplane from beside it.
Example Sentence 1
During the briefing, she traced the profile view with her finger to confirm the step-down altitudes before the final approach fix.
Example Sentence 2
Reviewing the profile view on the approach chart showed the required descent gradient from the step-down fix to the runway.