SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/ifr-contact-approach-1sm

A contact approach requires at least how much flight visibility?

1 statute mile.

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  1. 3 statute miles
  2. 1 statute mile ✔
  3. 1/2 statute mile

Why: The AIM says you must advise ATC immediately if you can't continue a contact approach or encounter less than 1 mile flight visibility. The pilot must request it, and it is used in lieu of a standard approach.

Huh, didn't know that: The controller must also make sure reported ground visibility is at least 1 mile before issuing the clearance.

The dad joke
On a perfectly clear day, Dad says, 'I can't believe how poor the visibility is.' Pointing at the hood: 'I can only see four feet in front of us.'
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References

Answer: 1 statute mile. The AIM says you must advise ATC immediately if you can't continue a contact approach or encounter less than 1 mile flight visibility. The pilot must request it, and it is used in lieu of a standard approach.

  1. AIM 5-5 Pilot/Controller Roles and Responsibilities www.faa.gov/air_traffic/publications/atpubs/aim_html/chap5_section_5.html
    Advises ATC immediately if unable to continue the contact approach or if encounters less than 1 mile flight visibility.
    Checked 2026-10-10.

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Test yourself in the game

FlyingThe authorized DA/DH or MDA for an approach is which of the available values?FlyingBelow DA, which condition must you meet to continue to land?FlyingIn which situation may you not make a procedure turn unless ATC clears you?

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