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AIM 

4/20/23

 

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Arrival Procedures

b.

Depending on weather conditions, traffic volume, and the specific combination of runways being utilized

for arrival operations, a runway may be used for different types of simultaneous operations, including closely
spaced dependent or independent approaches. Pilots should ensure that they understand the type of operation that
is being conducted, and ask ATC for clarification if necessary.

c.

Parallel approach operations demand heightened pilot situational awareness. A thorough Approach

Procedure Chart review should be conducted with, as a minimum, emphasis on the following approach chart
information: name and number of the approach, localizer frequency, inbound localizer/azimuth course,
glideslope/glidepath intercept altitude, glideslope crossing altitude at the final approach fix, decision height,
missed approach instructions, special notes/procedures, and the assigned runway location/proximity to adjacent
runways. Pilots are informed by ATC or through the ATIS that simultaneous approaches are in use.

d.

The close proximity of adjacent aircraft conducting simultaneous independent approaches, especially

simultaneous close parallel PRM approaches mandates strict pilot compliance with all ATC clearances. ATC
assigned airspeeds, altitudes, and headings must be complied with in a timely manner. Autopilot coupled
approaches require pilot knowledge of procedures necessary to comply with ATC instructions. Simultaneous
independent approaches, particularly simultaneous close parallel PRM approaches necessitate precise approach
course tracking to minimize final monitor controller intervention, and unwanted No Transgression Zone (NTZ)
penetration. In the unlikely event of a breakout, ATC will not assign altitudes lower than the minimum vectoring
altitude. Pilots should notify ATC immediately if there is a degradation of aircraft or navigation systems.

e.

Strict radio discipline is mandatory during simultaneous independent and simultaneous close parallel PRM

approach operations. This includes an alert listening watch and the avoidance of lengthy, unnecessary radio
transmissions. Attention must be given to proper call sign usage to prevent the inadvertent execution of
clearances intended for another aircraft. Use of abbreviated call signs must be avoided to preclude confusion of
aircraft with similar sounding call signs. Pilots must be alert to unusually long periods of silence or any unusual
background sounds in their radio receiver.

 

A stuck microphone may block the issuance of ATC instructions on

the tower frequency by the final monitor controller during simultaneous independent and simultaneous close
parallel PRM approaches. In the case of PRM approaches, the use of a second frequency by the monitor controller
mitigates the “stuck mike” or other blockage on the tower frequency.

REFERENCE

AIM, Chapter 4, Section 2, Radio Communications Phraseology and Techniques, gives additional communications information.

f.

Use of Traffic Collision Avoidance Systems (TCAS) provides an additional element of safety to parallel

approach operations. Pilots should follow recommended TCAS operating procedures presented in approved
flight manuals, original equipment manufacturer recommendations, professional newsletters, and FAA
publications.