is a series of predetermined maneuvers by reference to flight instruments with specified protection from obstacles and assurance of navigation signal reception capability. It begins from the initial approach fix, or where applicable, from the beginning of a defined arrival route to a point:
- From which a landing can be completed; or
- If a landing is not completed, to a position at which holding or en route obstacle clearance criteria apply.
A series of predetermined maneuvers for the orderly transfer of an aircraft under instrument flight conditions from the beginning of the initial approach to a landing or to a point from which a landing may be made visually. It is prescribed and approved for a specific airport by competent authority.
- U.S. civil standard instrument approach procedures are approved by the FAA as prescribed under 14 CFR Part 97 and are available for public use.
- U.S. military standard instrument approach procedures are approved and published by the Department of Defense.
- Special instrument approach procedures are approved by the FAA for individual operators but are not published in 14 CFR Part 97 for public use.