Definition
A defined point on the final approach course of a non-precision straight-in approach procedure from which the pilot may begin a normal descent from the Minimum Descent Altitude (MDA) to the runway touchdown point, provided the required visual references are in sight.
Plain English
On a non-precision approach, it is the spot along the final approach where, if you can see the runway, you can leave your minimum altitude and start a normal descent to land. Before reaching this point, you stay at the minimum altitude. If you reach the point and still cannot see the runway, you cannot start a normal descent from there.
Context Anchor
Seen on some instrument approach procedures, especially nonprecision approaches where the pilot levels at a minimum descent altitude before descending to the runway.
Derivation
The name describes its function plainly: a 'visual' point because you must have the runway environment in sight, and a 'descent' point because it is where you begin the descent from the minimum altitude toward the runway.
Why Pilots Care
It gives pilots a clear location to start a stabilized descent once visual contact is made, reducing the chance of a rushed or unstable landing.
Intuition Check
Do not read “Visual Descent Point” as simply “the place where I first see the runway.” It is a specific point on the approach that supports a normal descent, and you still need the required visual reference before descending below the minimum descent altitude.
Example Sentence 1
Approaching the VDP on the RNAV approach, the captain confirmed the runway was in sight before leaving the MDA.
Example Sentence 2
If the runway environment was not visible by the visual descent point, the pilot continued at the minimum altitude and prepared for the missed approach.