Minimum Descent Altitude is used on which type of approaches?

• A. Minimum Descent Altitude
• B. Maximum Descent Altitude
• C. Mean Descent Altitude
• D. Marginal Descent Altitude

Answer: (A)

Minimum Descent Altitude applies to non-precision approaches, which provide lateral guidance but no vertical guidance. Because there isn’t a glide path, a pilot descends to the MDA and then levels off, continuing visually only if the required runway environment and minimum visibility are in sight. If those visuals aren’t present by reaching the MDA, a missed approach is initiated. On approaches with vertical guidance (precision approaches), the altitude concept used is Decision Altitude/Height, not MDA. The other terms listed aren’t standard for describing approach types.