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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/ifr-no-pt-radar

In which situation may you not make a procedure turn unless ATC clears you?

When you are on a radar vector to the final approach course.

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  1. When you are flying the charted procedure-turn barb
  2. When the ceiling is above 3,000 feet
  3. When you are being radar vectored to the final approach course ✔

Why: 91.175(j) says you may not make a procedure turn on a radar vector, a timed approach from a holding fix, or an approach labeled NoPT, unless ATC clears you to do so.

Huh, didn't know that: The AIM says a procedure turn is used when you need to reverse direction to get established inbound on an intermediate or final approach course.

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My GPS told me to turn around. Now I can't see where I'm going.
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References

Answer: When you are being radar vectored to the final approach course. 91.175(j) says you may not make a procedure turn on a radar vector, a timed approach from a holding fix, or an approach labeled NoPT, unless ATC clears you to do so.

  1. 14 CFR 91.175 Takeoff and landing under IFR www.law.cornell.edu/cfr/text/14/91.175
    no pilot may make a procedure turn unless cleared to do so by ATC
    Checked 2026-10-10.
  2. AIM 5-4-9 Procedure Turn and Hold-in-lieu of Procedure Turn www.faa.gov/air_traffic/publications/atpubs/aim_html/chap5_section_4.html
    A procedure turn is the maneuver prescribed when it is necessary to reverse direction
    Checked 2026-10-10.

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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?FlyingAt DA/DH, without the required visual conditions, what must you do?

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