NTSB Recommends Mandating Continuous Descent Final Approach Training for Nonprecision Approaches

The National Transportation Safety Board, identified by reference number CEN16MA036 and recommendation A-16-039, has directed a formal safety recommendation to the Federal Aviation Administration. This directive calls for the implementation of mandatory training protocols regarding the performance and use of the continuous descent final approach technique. The proposed requirement targets operators conducting flights under 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 121, Part 135, and Part 91 subpart K, as well as training centers certified under 14 CFR Part 142. The core objective is to establish this specific descent method as the primary means for flight crews to conduct nonprecision approaches, thereby enhancing operational safety standards across these regulated aviation sectors.