Definition
A method used on certain non-precision instrument approaches to determine the missed approach point (MAP) by starting a stopwatch when crossing the final approach fix (FAF) inbound and flying at the published groundspeed-corrected time until the MAP is reached. When the published time elapses and the runway environment is not in sight, the missed approach must be initiated.
Plain English
On some approaches, you find the point where you must go around by starting a timer when you cross a specific fix and flying for the published number of minutes and seconds. When the time runs out, if you can't see the runway, you go missed.
Context Anchor
Seen on instrument approach charts and during missed approach planning, especially on approaches where time is used to help identify the missed approach point.
Why Pilots Care
It provides a precise, reliable method to avoid descending below the minimum descent altitude without visual references, directly supporting safe decision-making during instrument approaches.
Grounding Statement
In practice, this is a cockpit timer tied to a specific point on the approach: cross the FAF, start the clock, and use the published time to know when the missed approach point has arrived.
Intuition Check
Timing from FAF does not mean timing the whole approach. It means timing only from the final approach fix to the missed approach point, using the time published for your groundspeed.
Example Sentence 1
Crossing the FAF inbound, the pilot started the stopwatch and flew the final approach segment, ready to execute the missed approach if the runway wasn't visible when timing from FAF expired.
Example Sentence 2
Because the runway environment was not visible at the end of the timing from FAF, the crew turned to the published missed approach heading and began the climb.