VOR APPROACH
Updated: Dec 11, 2020
VOR Approach Lesson by wifiCFI
Introduction
VOR stands for “Very High Frequency Omnidirectional Range.”
VOR Approaches are typically Non-Precision Approaches.
They utilize VOR radials to create approach courses to the runway.
KOGD VOR A Example
Full Approach Example from RACGO (IAF)
“N736TB, proceed direct RACGO, maintain 7200.”
While en-route to the IAF, we should perform “ABC”
A: Airspeed/ATIS
Slow airspeed to set up for approach.
Obtain the airports ATIS/AWOS.
B: Build and Brief
Build the approach in the Instrument Approved GPS if applicable.
Brief the “Briefing Section” of the approach.
While briefing, be sure to input all necessary comm and nav frequencies.
C: Checklist
Run the approach checklist.

Note
It is important to complete the ABC’s as soon as possible.
If a pilot is “ahead” of the airplane, it makes the approach much easier.
How to Brief the Approach
1: Name of Approach
No runway indicated due to circling minimums only
2: VOR Frequency
Brief and Input
3: Approach Course
Brief and Input when Necessary
4: Runway Length and TDZE
5: Notes
6: Missed Approach Instructions
7: MSA Altitudes
8: Final Approach Fix
9: VDP
HAT/300
507/300 = 1.7 NM from RUYOS.
10: Minimum Altitude and Visibility
11: Missed Approach Point

“N736TB, cleared for the VOR A Approach.”

Maintain 10 DME Arc at 7200.
Turn inbound on 281 radial.
Descend to 5700 to OGD VOR (FAF).
600-1,000 FPM.
Cross OGD VOR and continue on 101 radial.
Descend to Circling Minimums.
4980 for Category A Aircraft.
600-1,000 FPM.
At VDP, make decision to continue or execute Missed Approach.
If runway environment is in sight…
Circle to assigned runway for landing.
If runway environment is not in sight…
Execute Missed Approach Procedures at RUYOS.
Instrument Rating ACS Standards
Establish proper two way radio communications.
Select, tune, and identify the proper navigation facility.
Comply with ATC/Examiner Clearances.
Establish proper airplane configurations and airspeeds.
Maintain Altitude +/- 100’.
Maintain Heading +/- 10 Degrees.
Maintain Airspeed +/- 10 KIAS.
Maintain a stabilized approach course with less than ¾ scale deflection for lateral navigation.
At MDA/MDH maintain altitude -0/+ 100’.
Execute missed approach procedures without proper runway environment criteria in sight or,
Transition to a normal landing while following proper visual glidepath indications.
Normal landing made within the runway touchdown zone.
FAA Sources Used for This Lesson
Instrument Flying Handbook
Instrument Airmen Certification Standards (ACS)