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Old 04-26-2015 | 04:50 AM
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From: Apache Junction AZ. WI 0WI8
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Originally Posted by bdoxey
Yes.

See link for approach plate to Birmingham, AL.

http://155.178.201.160/d-tpp/1504/00050IL6.PDF

The final approach fix is at 2200 MSL, or 1550 ft above the ground at 4.1 nm (4.7 statute miles). The descent begins there, so at 3 to 4 statute miles 1200 AGL is quite a normal altitude.

This is a very normal ILS instrument approach profile so it would apply at many airports. Many smaller airports without instrument approaches have a light system (VASI) that allows/encourages aircraft to fly the same descent profile as an ILS so the same altitude/distances can apply at most any airport.

Many non-precision approaches include a descent earlier than this - arriving at minimum descent altitude (400 to 600 AGL typically) earlier than a continuous descent to the runway as in an ILS so below 1200 AGL at 3 miles is quite common.

We had an issue here (KBHM) recently with a "drone" reported at 3400 MSL five miles from the airport a while back right on the route to intercept the final approach course. While I am a long time modeler - 40 years - I also fly airplanes for a living, I would like to keep doing both.

Something to think about: Pilots don't spend a lot of time deciding how big a rock we can throw at someone without hurting them. Perhaps the discussion about how big a model aircraft can hit us without hurting is a bit out of bounds.

Bryan
bdoxey;
Not meaning to deminish our Quad Copter problem because it is a problem. And it's one that can be corrected with education of those that are flying these TOYS. Being a professional pilot and probably making at least on Approach wherther a visual or Instruments daily, What level of danger would danger would U asses to Quads as opposed to Birds?
Next have U any Ideas how we EDUCATE the public (Our real Problem as I see It) and those that fly R/C TOYS in the NAS, responsibly by the Rules AMA Safety Code and the FAR's when these people don't even know they exist, And no one not Hobby King, Tower Horizon Grate Planes or even the LHS tell a prospective Quad Flyer there are rules that must be followed just like traffic laws. Also ther Conquesses for not following the rules Safety code or FAR's.
JMHO