Understanding 'Terps' on an Instrument Approach Plate: A Guide for Pilots

When pilot manuals and air traffic control charts reference 'Terps,' they are referring to a specific set of terminal instrument procedures defined by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). This article will provide a comprehensive guide to help pilots understand what 'Terps' mean in the context of an approach plate and the significance of these procedures.

What Are Terminal Instrument Procedures (Terps)?

Terminal Instrument Procedures, or Terps, are detailed instrument approaches to airports that are designed and published to provide a safe and efficient descent and landing for aircraft equipped with suitable flight instruments. These procedures are developed to comply with the standards set forth in the FAA Order 8260.3, which outlines the specific requirements and guidelines for instrument approach procedures.

FAA Order 8260.3: The Foundation of Terps

The cornerstone of Terps is the FAA Order 8260.3, a document that serves as the primary reference for all instrument approach procedures. This order specifies the minimum requirements for instrument approach procedures, including the criteria for selecting suitable airports, the design of approach paths, and the responsibilities of airport operators and pilots. The guidelines in this order ensure that all instrument approach procedures meet the highest standards of safety.

Why Terps Are Important for Pilots

The use of Terps is critical for pilots because they provide a standardized approach procedure that is consistent across different airports and aircraft types. This standardization allows pilots to approach and land safely and efficiently, even when operating in unfamiliar airspace. The standardized approach procedures included in Terps are designed to help pilots navigate through the various phases of an instrument approach, from initial descent to final landing.

The Approach Plate: A Detailed Tool for Pilots

An approach plate is a graphic depiction of the instrument approach procedure for a specific runway or airport. This plate includes all the necessary information a pilot needs to safely navigate the approach and landing. The approach plate is an integral part of the navigation process, and it is where pilots often see the term 'Terps' referenced.

On an approach plate, the 'Terps' designation may appear as a label or part of the procedure description. Pilots should understand that a 'Terps' approach means that the approach procedure has been designed and approved in accordance with the standards set forth in the FAA Order 8260.3. This designation ensures that the approach is up to date, accurate, and complies with all the necessary standards for safe operation.

Key Elements of a Terps Approach Procedure

Terps approaches include several key elements that pilots must understand:

Initial Descent Point (IDP): This is the point at which a pilot begins the initial descent from cruising altitude. The exact location of the IDP is clearly marked on the approach plate and is one of the critical points of any approach procedure. Mapped Altitude (MA): This is the specified altitude at which a pilot should have established the proper intercept course to the runway. Failure to maintain this altitude can lead to a missed approach. Missed Approach Point (MAP): If a pilot cannot continue with the approach due to weather or other factors, they must execute a missed approach procedure from this point. The MAP is clearly defined on the approach plate and helps ensure a safe and controlled departure from the approach. Minima: These are the minimum conditions under which a safe landing can be made. These conditions include visibility and cloud ceiling. Pilots must ensure that they meet the minima before initiating the final approach to the runway.

Conclusion

In summary, the term 'Terps' on an instrument approach plate denotes a standardized approach procedure designed and approved according to the FAA Order 8260.3. Understanding Terps and the associated approach plate is crucial for pilots to ensure safe and efficient operations, especially when flying in instrument conditions.

Keywords

Terminal Instrument Procedures, FAA Order 8260.3, Approach Plate