How should you maneuver the aircraft when going missed on a circling approach because you lost the runway?

• A. Climbing turn towards the runway and then fly the missed approach procedure
• B. Turn away from the runway and perform a standard missed approach
• C. Maintain altitude and continue the approach
• D. Descend straight to the MAP and then commence the missed approach

Answer: (A)

When you break off a circling approach, the priority is to climb and get established in the published missed approach path while maintaining obstacle clearance. A climbing turn toward the runway is the best option because it keeps you within protected airspace around the airport and positions you to intercept the missed approach course quickly. This maneuver ensures you’re ascending away from terrain and obstacles on the sides and toward the intended missed path, rather than drifting away from the runway and potentially into more hazards.

Once you begin this climbing turn toward the runway, you then follow the published missed approach procedure. Descending or continuing the approach after deciding to go around is unsafe, and turning away from the runway would steer you away from the required missed approach path, again risking clearance and coordination.