What describes the recommended altitude on an instrument approach chart?

• A. An altitude depicted with no underscoring or overscoring; advisory value
• B. A mandatory altitude to be followed exactly
• C. The minimum altitude along the approach
• D. An altitude that must be met before weather minimums

Answer: (A)

On instrument approach charts, some altitudes are advisory while others are mandatory, and the notation tells you which is which. The altitude described here is the recommended altitude, shown without any underscoring or overscoring, which marks it as advisory. That means it’s a helpful guideline to maintain a stable, safe path, but you’re not required to fly exactly at that altitude; you still must comply with the mandatory restrictions and reach the published minima (MDA/DA) to land. The other descriptions refer to altitudes that are enforced or to different kinds of minima, which would be indicated differently on the chart.