When should you slow down to 120-150 KIAS on approach?

When should you slow down to 120-150 KIAS on approach?

• A. Within 3 minutes of the IAF
• B. Upon passing the FAF
• C. After the published minimums
• D. After landing clearance

Answer: (A)

On an instrument approach, managing energy means getting the airplane slowed to the appropriate approach speed before you reach the final portion of the procedure. You should slow to 120–150 KIAS within 3 minutes of the initial approach fix so you’re configured and stable as you enter the final approach segment. This timing gives you enough margin to descend on the published path without overspeed in turns and ensures you’re ready for the final approach without rushing. If you wait until you pass the final approach fix, you’d be too fast for the final segment, making it harder to maintain the glide path. The published minimums refer to altitude, not when to slow. Slowing after those minimums would not address the approach speed needs. And waiting for landing clearance is not a condition for slowing down and would be impractical.

On an instrument approach, managing energy means getting the airplane slowed to the appropriate approach speed before you reach the final portion of the procedure. You should slow to 120–150 KIAS within 3 minutes of the initial approach fix so you’re configured and stable as you enter the final approach segment. This timing gives you enough margin to descend on the published path without overspeed in turns and ensures you’re ready for the final approach without rushing.

If you wait until you pass the final approach fix, you’d be too fast for the final segment, making it harder to maintain the glide path. The published minimums refer to altitude, not when to slow. Slowing after those minimums would not address the approach speed needs. And waiting for landing clearance is not a condition for slowing down and would be impractical.