When does an instrument approach begin????

[cfii2007]

I remember reading that the instrument approach begins at the FAF, and you must proceed to that point for it to count as such.

Am I correct??

[subpilot]

I am 99.9% sure that the instrument approach begins at the IAP. If you are being vectored to final then I would say that the approach begins once established on the published segment of the approach.

[meritflyer]

I'd say by pure definition, it begins at the IAF. If you define the segments of an approach, it begins at the IAF. Feeder routes are not technically a segment.

As for being vectored, I'd also assume once "established" on a published segment.

I'll try to find some references.

[surreal1221]

Originally Posted by subpilot

I am 99.9% sure that the instrument approach begins at the IAP. If you are being vectored to final then I would say that the approach begins once established on the published segment of the approach.

Approaches begin at an IAP, unless being vectored ONTO the final approach course.

[Doug Taylor]

Weather to the feather!

[cfii2007]

Originally Posted by surreal1221

Approaches begin at an IAP, unless being vectored ONTO the final approach course.

We were being vectored to the approach course just outside the FAF.

[subpilot]

You won't be vectored onto final AFTER the FAF.

[cfii2007]

Originally Posted by subpilot

You won't be vectored onto final AFTER the FAF.

Yeah.....I know that.

[surreal1221]

Originally Posted by subpilot

You won't be vectored onto final AFTER the FAF.

Or, if it appears you are being vectored INSIDE the FAF. . .I'd be pretty darn prompt about requesting another set up - or tell them you'll fly the full approach from an IAF if the vectors are going to be that bad.