Which condition requires a missed approach during an approach?

The necessity of a missed approach often arises when an aircraft is not stabilized during its descent and approach phase. A stabilized approach entails maintaining a steady flight path, proper speed, and the correct configuration of the aircraft as it approaches the runway. If any of these criteria are not met—such as excessive descent rates, inadequate alignment with the runway, or deviations from the desired glide slope—the pilot must execute a missed approach to ensure safety.

This procedure is critical because continuing an approach under unstable conditions can lead to accidents or collisions. Essentially, not being stabilized indicates that the aircraft may not be in the best configuration to safely land, which is why a missed approach is required.

In contrast, while unfavorable weather can affect an approach, it does not automatically necessitate a missed approach unless it contributes to an unstable condition. Similarly, while ATC may request a missed approach, the trigger for this action is typically linked to the aircraft situation rather than simply an ATC instruction. A stable approach, of course, would not require a missed approach at all.