Term

go-around

Daniel MarkFounder & Editor, Aviatopia
Published Mar 1, 2026Updated Mar 1, 20261 min read

The maneuver of aborting a landing attempt and climbing away to reposition for another approach — a standard procedure, not an emergency.

aviation-glossary

Quick Facts

Type
Flight Procedure
Definition
The maneuver of aborting a landing attempt and climbing away to reposition fo...
Used By
Pilots, ATC

Definition#

A go-around is the procedure of discontinuing an approach or landing attempt and initiating a climb. It may be initiated by the pilot or directed by ATC. The aircraft follows the published missed approach procedure or ATC instructions.

Why It Matters Operationally#

Go-arounds occur due to unstable approaches, traffic on the runway, wind shear, visibility below minimums at decision height, and ATC instruction. They are a normal operational procedure, and crews train for them regularly.

See Also

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