What happens when specified visual aids are inoperative?

• A. Higher minimums are prescribed when specified visual aids are not functioning; this information is listed in the Inoperative Components Table.
• B. Lower minimums are prescribed.
• C. No change to minimums.
• D. The procedure is canceled.

Answer: (A)

When specified visual aids are inoperative, higher minimums are prescribed. This happens because the published minima assume those aids are available to provide the necessary visual cues for safe descent and landing. The Inoperative Components Table lists exactly how much the minimums must be increased for various combinations of aids that are not functioning, so you refer to it to determine the new required visibility and descent altitude for that approach. If the table doesn’t publish higher minima for the affected components, the approach isn’t authorized to be flown with those aids inoperative. Once the aids are repaired, you can return to the standard minima.