Skip to content

5.8 Common Vectoring Errors

5.8.1 General

Common vectoring errors occur when control is reactive rather than planned.

The Approach Controller shall recognise and avoid these errors to maintain safe, stable, and efficient operations.

5.8.2 Late Base Turn

Description:

  • Aircraft is turned onto base too late
  • Results in high intercept angle or overshoot

Consequences:

  • Unstable final approach
  • Increased pilot workload
  • Risk of loss of separation

Mitigation:

The Approach Controller shall:

  • Plan base turn in advance
  • Turn aircraft earlier based on speed and position
  • Ensure appropriate spacing before base

5.8.3 Excessive Intercept Angles

Description:

  • Intercept angle too high (typically >30° close to final)

Consequences:

  • Overshoot of final approach track
  • Unstable approach profile

Mitigation:

The Approach Controller shall:

  • Use appropriate intercept angles (20°–30°)
  • Reduce intercept angle closer to final
  • Plan intercept early

5.8.4 Over-Vectoring

Description:

  • Excessive or unnecessary heading changes
  • Multiple corrective instructions

Consequences:

  • Increased controller workload
  • Reduced predictability for pilots
  • Inefficient traffic flow

Mitigation:

The Approach Controller shall:

  • Issue planned and minimal instructions
  • Avoid unnecessary manoeuvring
  • Maintain a structured sequence

5.8.5 Poor Speed Control

Description:

  • Late or ineffective speed instructions
  • Incorrect use of speed to manage spacing

Consequences:

  • Compression of traffic
  • Increased reliance on vectoring
  • Unstable approaches

Mitigation:

The Approach Controller shall:

  • Apply speed control early
  • Use speed in combination with vectoring
  • Anticipate aircraft response delay

5.8.6 Reactive Decision-Making

Description:

  • Delayed response to developing situations
  • Acting after conflicts occur

Consequences:

  • Increased workload
  • Loss of situational awareness
  • Risk of loss of separation

Mitigation:

The Approach Controller shall:

  • Anticipate conflicts early
  • Plan ahead continuously
  • Act before situations develop

5.8.7 Key Principle

Vectoring errors are primarily caused by late or reactive control.

The Approach Controller shall:

  • Plan ahead
  • Act early
  • Maintain control of the sequence

Proactive control prevents errors and ensures safe, stable operations.