What maximum descent rate is allowed in the stabilized approach policy at 1000 feet AFE?

What maximum descent rate is allowed in the stabilized approach policy at 1000 feet AFE?

• A. 1000 FPM
• B. 1500 FPM
• C. 1200 FPM
• D. 900 FPM

Answer: (C)

Stabilized approach criteria set how fast you’re allowed to descend while you’re still in a stable, controlled configuration toward the runway. At 1000 feet above field elevation, the maximum descent rate you’re permitted is 1200 feet per minute. This higher ceiling accounts for real-world factors like wind and higher groundspeed, which can push you into a steeper yet still manageable path as long as you’re on the correct flight path, on-speed, in landing configuration, and with a stable sink rate. Choosing a lower rate, such as 1000 fpm, would be more conservative but not the defined maximum. A rate of 1500 fpm would risk breaking the stabilized criteria, and 900 fpm, while usable, isn’t the maximum permitted at that altitude.

Stabilized approach criteria set how fast you’re allowed to descend while you’re still in a stable, controlled configuration toward the runway. At 1000 feet above field elevation, the maximum descent rate you’re permitted is 1200 feet per minute. This higher ceiling accounts for real-world factors like wind and higher groundspeed, which can push you into a steeper yet still manageable path as long as you’re on the correct flight path, on-speed, in landing configuration, and with a stable sink rate.

Choosing a lower rate, such as 1000 fpm, would be more conservative but not the defined maximum. A rate of 1500 fpm would risk breaking the stabilized criteria, and 900 fpm, while usable, isn’t the maximum permitted at that altitude.