In Case 2, what must the alternate minima include?

In Case 2, what must the alternate minima include?

• A. Published minimums PLUS 200-½ (precision) or better
• B. 3,000-3 or better
• C. 0-0
• D. 200-½ only

Answer: (A)

For planning an alternate, you must use weather minimums that are at least as good as the airport’s instrument-approach minimums, with an added safety margin. When the alternate relies on a precision approach, this margin is 200 feet of ceiling and 1/2 mile of visibility above the published minimums. In other words, you take the lowest published minimums for the approach to that alternate and add 200 feet and 1/2 mile, requiring forecast conditions at or better than that level. This is why the correct choice is the published minimums plus 200-½ (precision) or better. It ensures the alternate is truly usable in less-than-perfect conditions.

For planning an alternate, you must use weather minimums that are at least as good as the airport’s instrument-approach minimums, with an added safety margin. When the alternate relies on a precision approach, this margin is 200 feet of ceiling and 1/2 mile of visibility above the published minimums. In other words, you take the lowest published minimums for the approach to that alternate and add 200 feet and 1/2 mile, requiring forecast conditions at or better than that level. This is why the correct choice is the published minimums plus 200-½ (precision) or better. It ensures the alternate is truly usable in less-than-perfect conditions.