What is the Visual Descent Point (VDP)?

• A. A defined point on the final approach course of a nonprecision straight-in approach procedure from which normal descent from the MDA to the runway touchdown point may be commenced, provided the runway environment is clearly visible to the pilot.
• B. The point at which the instrument approach is stabilized.
• C. The altitude at which descent from the MDA begins.
• D. The point where the missed approach must be initiated.

Answer: (A)

Visual Descent Point is a defined point on the final approach course of a nonprecision straight‑in approach from which you may begin a normal descent from the minimum descent altitude to the runway touchdown point, provided the runway environment is clearly visible. It marks the transition from the instrument segment to the visual segment, giving you a predictable path (roughly a 3-degree descent) to the touchdown if you have the required sight of the runway. You stay at or above the MDA until you reach this point and can see the runway; if you don’t, you don’t descend further and you proceed with the missed approach. This concept does not describe a stabilization point, an altitude to start descent from MDA, or the point to initiate a missed approach—that’s handled by other criteria.