Definition of a Visual Approach
 

Can anyone please clarify what a Visual Approach actually means when approaching an airport IFR.

Are you obliged to make your way to the IAF, carry out an instrument reversal, or DME arc and then complete the approach visually or can you descend in IMC to position yourself in the visual circuit provided you have at least 800m visibility.

If it is the former what is the advantage to doing it? Is it just financial? If it means you don't get charged for the approach what is to stop you using the approach aid in any case but just declaring a visual approach.

And if i wanted to approach a busy airport IFR, breaking cloud at say 3000', then joining the visual circuit in VMC to land, thereby avoiding any part of an instrument approach, would a request for a visual approach be the correct terminology?

Hi SpaceBadger,

that's what ICAO says:

ICAO Doc 4444 6.5.3.3

An IFR flight may be cleared to execute a visual approach provided the pilot can maintain visual reference to terrain and:
a) the reported ceiling is at or above the approved initial approach level for the aircraft so cleared; or
b) the pilot reports at the initial approach level or at any time during the instrument approach procedure that the meterological conditions are such that with reasonable assurance a visual approach and landing can be completed

Executing a visual approach does not mean you are not an IFR flight anymore. Separation has to be applied accordingly and as far as I know you are charged the full IFR approach fee.

Regards
DG

Thanks Doubtful,

So i suppose in my last example, if I wanted to break cloud then join the visual circuit to land without entering any part of the instrument approach, I should just ask for a descent and VFR approach.

Why though do I so often hear large commercial traffic requesting a visual approach if they still get charged. What advantage is there to continuing visually?