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9.6 Missed Approach Coordination

9.6.1 General

A missed approach (go-around) requires immediate coordination between Tower (TWR) and Approach (APP) to ensure separation and safe integration into the traffic flow.

Missed approaches shall be anticipated and protected at all times.


9.6.2 Initiation

A missed approach may be:

  • Instructed by the Tower Controller, or
  • Initiated by the pilot

The Tower Controller shall assume initial control of the aircraft until transfer to Approach is completed.


9.6.3 Tower Responsibilities

The Tower Controller shall:

  • Issue the go-around instruction without delay
  • Provide initial climb instruction where required
  • Protect the runway and immediate airspace
  • Inform Approach immediately

The Tower Controller shall ensure no conflict exists with runway or low-level traffic.


9.6.4 Approach Controller Responsibilities

The Approach Controller shall:

  • Assume control of the aircraft upon transfer
  • Issue climb, heading, or routing instructions
  • Ensure separation from arriving and departing aircraft
  • Protect the missed approach path
  • Reintegrate the aircraft into the arrival sequence

9.6.5 Coordination Requirements

Coordination between Tower and Approach shall:

  • Be immediate and explicit
  • Include aircraft identity and situation
  • Ensure both controllers are aware of the missed approach

No delay in coordination is permitted.


9.6.6 Phraseology

Standard phraseology shall be used:

Go around, fly runway heading, climb to 3000 feet.

Instructions shall be clear, concise, and issued without delay.


9.6.7 Separation and Airspace Protection

The Approach Controller shall:

  • Protect the missed approach path
  • Ensure separation from aircraft on final approach
  • Ensure separation from departing aircraft
  • Anticipate conflicts in adjacent airspace

9.6.8 Transfer of Control

The Tower Controller shall transfer communication to Approach as soon as practicable.

The Approach Controller assumes responsibility when:

  • Two-way communication is established, or
  • As defined by local procedures

The Tower Controller remains responsible until transfer of control is complete.


9.6.9 Limitations

Controllers shall not:

  • Delay issuing a go-around when required
  • Allow conflicting traffic within the missed approach path
  • Assume the other unit is aware without coordination

9.6.10 Key Principle

Missed approach coordination shall be immediate, structured, and controlled.

Controllers shall:

  • Anticipate
  • Act without delay
  • Maintain separation

Effective coordination ensures safe recovery and continuation of operations.