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4/20/23 

AIM 

TBL 5

4

RVR Value Conversions 

RVR 

Visibility 

(statute miles) 

1600 

1

/

2400 

1

/

3200 

5

/

4000 

3

/

4500 

7

/

5000 

6000 

1

/

1. 

Circling approach protected areas are defined by the tangential connection of arcs drawn from each 

runway end (see FIG 5

4

27). Circling approach protected areas developed prior to late 2012 used fixed radius 

distances, dependent on aircraft approach category, as shown in the table on page B2 of the U.S. TPP. The 

approaches using standard circling approach areas can be identified by the absence of the “negative C” symbol 

on the circling line of minima. Circling approach protected areas developed after late 2012 use the radius distance 

shown in the table on page B2 of the U.S. TPP, dependent on aircraft approach category, and the altitude of the 

circling MDA, which accounts for true airspeed increase with altitude. The approaches using expanded circling 

approach areas can be identified by the presence of the “negative C” symbol on the circling line of minima (see 

FIG 5

4

28). Because of obstacles near the airport, a portion of the circling area may be restricted by a 

procedural note; for example, “Circling NA E of RWY 17

35.” Obstacle clearance is provided at the published 

minimums (MDA) for the pilot who makes a straight

in approach, side

steps, or circles. Once below the MDA 

the pilot must see and avoid obstacles. Executing the missed approach after starting to maneuver usually places 

the aircraft beyond the MAP. The aircraft is clear of obstacles when at or above the MDA while inside the circling 

area, but simply joining the missed approach ground track from the circling maneuver may not provide vertical 

obstacle clearance once the aircraft exits the circling area. Additional climb inside the circling area may be 

required before joining the missed approach track. See paragraph 5

4

21, Missed Approach, for additional 

considerations when starting a missed approach at other than the MAP. 

FIG 5

4

27 

Final Approach Obstacle Clearance 

Arrival Procedures 

5

4

55