Circling Approach Calculator

Circling approach minimums, category, radius, and visibility requirements per FAA TERPS.

Vref / 1.3 Vso (KIAS)

Airport elevation (ft)

Highest obstacle AGL (ft)

Straight-in MDA (ft MSL)

Reported visibility (SM)

Runway length (ft)

Wind speed (kts)

Wind angle off runway (deg)

Tab to move between fields

Approach category (1=A...5=E)

Circling MDA (ft MSL)

5,500

Circling MDA (ft AGL)500

Circling radius (NM)1.3

Min visibility required (SM)1

Visibility adequate (1=Yes)1

Crosswind component (kts)5

Headwind component (kts)8.7

Standard rate bank (deg)13.5

Turn radius (NM)0.78

Circling time (min)3.5

CategoryA

Hat500

How to Use This Calculator

Enter your aircraft's Vref or 1.3 Vso (KIAS) to determine approach category (A through E).
Set airport elevation (ft MSL) and height of the highest obstacle within the circling area (ft AGL).
Enter the straight-in MDA from the approach plate and reported visibility (SM).
Review the applicable circling MDA (ft MSL and AGL), circling radius (NM), and minimum visibility.
Ensure actual visibility exceeds the minimum required before commencing a circling approach.

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