When should you initiate a missed approach on a precision approach?

Initiating a missed approach during a precision approach should occur at decision altitude when the runway is not in sight, or when directed to do so. The decision altitude, or DA, is a critical point in the approach where you must make a decision based on visibility and situational awareness. If the runway environment is not visible by DA, it is essential to execute the missed approach procedures to maintain safety.

This procedure is crucial because it helps prevent pilots from attempting to land under inadequate conditions, which could lead to a loss of control or an accident. This protocol is established in standard operating procedures to ensure there are clear criteria for decision-making during approaches. While air traffic control may give directions to go around, the pilot's responsibility includes continuously assessing their ability to see the runway as they descend through decision altitude.