Definition
On an instrument approach chart, a dashed or dotted line shown in the profile or plan view indicating the recommended visual track from the missed approach point or visual descent point to the runway, used after transitioning from instrument to visual flight.
Plain English
A line drawn on an approach chart that shows the suggested path to follow by eye once you can see the runway, after flying the instrument portion of the approach.
Context Anchor
Seen on the plan view of some instrument approach charts, where the chart shows how the aircraft should continue visually toward the runway.
Derivation
“Visual” comes from a Latin word meaning “to see.” “Flightpath” means the path an aircraft follows through the air. Together, the term points to a path flown by sight, not just by instruments.
Why Pilots Care
Allows a safe transition from instrument guidance to visual landing while preventing descent below minimums without adequate visual cues.
Grounding Statement
Picture breaking out of the clouds, seeing the runway area, and then following the path shown on the chart to continue safely toward landing.
Intuition Check
Do not read “visual” as “do whatever looks right.” Here it means the charted part of the approach that is flown using outside visual references.
Example Sentence 1
After breaking out below the clouds, the pilot followed the visual flightpath shown on the approach chart to line up with the runway.
Example Sentence 2
The approach chart marks the visual flightpath so pilots know where they must have the runway in sight to continue safely.