Originally Posted by
West Coast
Other pilot says that once established on the FAC, even well outside the FAF that higher category minimums apply.
Approach category is determined by final approach speed at maximum landing weights.
So if you fly 120 kts at minimums then you are Category B and if you fly 140kts you should apply the minimums for category C.
What your speed is outside of the final approach fix is irrelevant.
1.4.1 Aircraft performance has a direct effect on the airspace and visibility required for the various manoeuvres associated with the conduct of instrument approach procedures. The most significant performance factor is aircraft speed. Accordingly, categories of typical aircraft have been established.
1.4.2 The criterion taken into consideration for the classification of aeroplanes by categories is the indicated airspeed at threshold (Vst).
1.4.3 Aircraft categories will be referred to by their letter designations as follows:
- Category A: less than 169 km/h (91 kt) indicated airspeed (IAS)
- Category B: 169 km/h (91 kt) or more but less than 224 km/h (121 kt) IAS
- Category C: 224 km/h (121 kt) or more but less than 261 km/h (141 kt) IAS
- Category D: 261 km/h (141 kt) or more but less than 307 km/h (166 kt) IAS
- Category E: 307 km/h (166 kt) or more but less than 391 km/h (211 kt) IAS
- Category H: see 1.4.7, “Helicopters”.
Source: ICAO Doc 8168 PANS-OPS Vol 1, §4, ¶1.4