A low approach, sometimes referred to as a low pass, is essentially a go-around maneuver following an approach
Instead of touching down, a pilot may wish to go-around without touching down in order to expedite a particular operation
Typically performed in conjunction with a practice approach where you want to maximize fuel to shoot as many approaches as possible
Unless authorized, the low approach should be made straight ahead, with no turns or climb made until the pilot has made a thorough visual check for other aircraft in the area
Authorities:
Tower or Flight Service are the authority on performing this maneuver
FSS only if tower is not in operation or not available
Towered Operations:
When operating within a Class B, Class C, and Class D surface area, a pilot intending to make a low approach should contact the tower for approval
This request should be made prior to starting the final approach
The aircraft will be treated as an arriving aircraft until touchdown or crossing the landing threshold
Thereafter, the aircraft will be considered a departing aircraft
The aircraft will be issued appropriate departure instructions following the completion of the approach
Climb-out instructions must include a specific heading or a route of flight and altitude, except when the aircraft will maintain VFR and contact the tower
ATC: "After completing low approach, climb and maintain six thousand Turn right, heading three six zero"
ATC: "Maintain VFR, contact tower"
Climb-out instructions may be omitted after the first approach if instructions remain the same
Non-Towered Operations:
When operating to an airport, not within a Class B, Class C, and Class D surface area, a pilot intending to make a low approach should, prior to leaving the final approach fix inbound (non-precision approach) or the outer marker or fix used in lieu of the outer marker inbound (precision approach), so advise the FSS, UNICOM, or make a broadcast as appropriate
Conclusion:
To learn more about instrument procedures, be sure to check out the Instrument Procedures Handbook online or on paperback
