What is the Initial Approach Fix (IAF)?

• A. A navigation fix where the initial approach segment begins.
• B. A navigation fix where the final approach segment begins.
• C. A navigation fix located at the missed approach point.
• D. A navigation fix at the runway threshold.

Answer: (C)

The Initial Approach Fix is the point where the instrument approach begins, marking the start of the initial approach segment. From this fix you establish the aircraft on the published course and descend as required toward the intermediate and final approach. It’s defined to set you up for joining the rest of the procedure, not to mark where you decide to go missed or where you land.

It isn’t the location of the missed approach point, which is the point in the procedure where you determine whether to continue the approach or execute a go-around. The missed approach point comes at the end of the final approach, not at the beginning of the approach sequence. The runway threshold is simply a landmark near the end of the final approach, not the starting reference.

So the idea is that the Initial Approach Fix serves as the starting reference for the approach path, guiding you from the outset toward the subsequent segments and ultimately to landing or a missed approach if needed.