What is contact approach?

Contact approach refers to a method used by pilots to establish communication with air traffic control during the initial phase of approaching an airport. During contact approach, the pilot initiates contact with the appropriate ATC facility to request clearance for an approach to the airport.

In essence, the contact approach allows pilots to bypass the standard approach procedures and navigate directly to the airport, provided that certain conditions are met. These conditions include good weather conditions, visual contact with the airport, and the capability to safely conduct the approach without interference with other air traffic.

Pilots must obtain clearance from ATC before conducting a contact approach, and they must adhere to any instructions given by ATC during the approach. Contact approaches are typically used when aircraft are already in visual contact with the airport and can safely navigate to the airport without relying on radar guidance or other navigation aids.

Overall, the contact approach is a useful tool for pilots to expedite their arrival procedures while maintaining safety and adherence to air traffic control instructions.