Definition
Missed approach procedures that require the aircraft to change heading during the climb-out, rather than flying straight ahead, in order to avoid terrain, obstacles, or controlled airspace after a discontinued instrument approach. For helicopters, the flight manual may impose specific limitations on when and how a turning missed approach may be flown, including minimum airspeeds, bank angles, or single-engine performance requirements.
Plain English
A missed approach where the pilot has to turn while climbing away, instead of just flying straight out. The helicopter's flight manual may set rules about how this turn can be made safely.
Context Anchor
Seen when reviewing helicopter instrument procedures and checking the helicopter flight manual for limits on what missed approach paths the helicopter may fly.
Derivation
“Missed approach” means an approach that does not end in a landing. “Turning” adds the important point that the climb-away path includes a required change in direction, not just a straight climb.
Why Pilots Care
Maintains obstacle clearance and routes the aircraft safely away from the airport environment during a go-around.
Grounding Statement
Picture reaching the point where landing is no longer possible, adding power, climbing away, and then following a required turn to stay on the safe path.
Intuition Check
Do not read “turning” as a casual choice by the pilot. Here it means the missed approach instructions require a turn as part of the protected escape path.
Example Sentence 1
Before starting the approach, the pilot reviewed the turning missed approach procedure and confirmed the helicopter could meet the climb gradient with one engine inoperative.
Example Sentence 2
The pilot briefed the turning missed approach procedure so the crew would know exactly when and which way to turn if the landing could not be completed.