Which condition must be satisfied before descending below MDA(H) from a circling approach?

Which condition must be satisfied before descending below MDA(H) from a circling approach?

• A. Visual reference with the runway has been made and can be maintained
• B. The aircraft must be below 1000 ft AGL
• C. The engine is at maximum power
• D. The autopilot is engaged

Answer: (A)

You may descend below MDA/H only after you have the runway in sight and can maintain a continuous visual reference to the runway to safely complete the landing. In a circling approach, this means you must be able to see the runway environment and stay within the circling area while continuing the approach, before descending below the published minimum altitude. The other factors—such as needing to be below a fixed altitude like 1000 ft AGL, requiring maximum engine power, or having the autopilot engaged—do not establish the safety condition for descending below MDA/H.

You may descend below MDA/H only after you have the runway in sight and can maintain a continuous visual reference to the runway to safely complete the landing. In a circling approach, this means you must be able to see the runway environment and stay within the circling area while continuing the approach, before descending below the published minimum altitude. The other factors—such as needing to be below a fixed altitude like 1000 ft AGL, requiring maximum engine power, or having the autopilot engaged—do not establish the safety condition for descending below MDA/H.