approach instructions are not published on the chart. However, the alternate missed approach holding pattern will
be depicted on the instrument approach chart for pilot situational awareness and to assist ATC by not having to
issue detailed holding instructions. The alternate missed approach may be based on NAVAIDs not used in the
approach procedure or the primary missed approach. When the alternate missed approach procedure is
implemented by NOTAM, it becomes a mandatory part of the procedure. The NOTAM will specify both the
textual instructions and any additional equipment requirements necessary to complete the procedure. Air traffic
may also issue instructions for the alternate missed approach when necessary, such as when the primary missed
approach NAVAID fails during the approach. Pilots may reject an ATC clearance for an alternate missed
approach that requires equipment not necessary for the published approach procedure when the alternate missed
approach is issued after beginning the approach. However, when the alternate missed approach is issued prior
to beginning the approach the pilot must either accept the entire procedure (including the alternate missed
approach), request a different approach procedure, or coordinate with ATC for alternative action to be taken, i.e.,
proceed to an alternate airport, etc.
f. When approach has been missed, request clearance for specific action; i.e., to alternative airport, another
approach, etc.
g. Pilots must ensure that they have climbed to a safe altitude prior to proceeding off the published missed
approach, especially in nonradar environments. Abandoning the missed approach prior to reaching the published
altitude may not provide adequate terrain clearance. Additional climb may be required after reaching the holding
pattern before proceeding back to the IAF or to an alternate.
h. A clearance for an instrument approach procedure includes a clearance to fly the published missed
approach procedure, unless otherwise instructed by ATC. The published missed approach procedure provides
obstacle clearance only when the missed approach is conducted on the missed approach segment from or above
the missed approach point, and assumes a climb rate of 200 feet/NM or higher, as published. If the aircraft
initiates a missed approach at a point other than the missed approach point (see paragraph 5-4-5b), from below
MDA or DA (H), or on a circling approach, obstacle clearance is not necessarily provided by following the
published missed approach procedure, nor is separation assured from other air traffic in the vicinity.
FIG 5-4-30

Circling and Missed Approach Obstruction Clearance Areas
DECISION TO MISS
HERE
CLIMBING TURN

CLIMBING TURN

CIRCLING
MANEUVER
(WHEN
CLEARED IN
RIGHT HAND
TRAFFIC
PATTERN)

Arrival Procedures

VOR

DECISION
TO MISS HERE

VOR

5-4-59