Uploaded August 2026 | Updated September 2026, 2 weeks ago
A missed approach is one of the highest-workload moments in instrument flying. In just a few seconds, you're transitioning from landing to climbing, cleaning up the airplane, navigating the published missed approach, and communicating with ATC. Without a memorized procedure, it's easy to get behind the airplane.
In this lesson, we'll fly a VOR approach all the way through a real missed approach and demonstrate a simple memory flow you can use every time: the 5 Cs.
You'll learn:
When to begin the missed approach climb
The correct order for power, pitch, configuration, and communication
How to prioritize tasks using Aviate, Navigate, Communicate
Why many pilots try to do too much too soon
How to stay ahead of the airplane during one of the busiest phases of IFR flight
Tips for flying a VOR missed approach with multiple navigation radios
Whether you're preparing for your instrument checkride or just want a repeatable system you can rely on in IMC, this is a practical procedure you can use on every missed approach.
✈️ Master IFR flying with FlightInsight's complete Instrument Ground School:
flight-insight.com/ifr
📘 Download our free IFR Checkride Study Guide:
flight-insight.com/ifr-pdf
If you enjoy practical IFR training that focuses on real cockpit decision-making, not just passing the written, subscribe for new videos every week.
A missed approach is one of the highest-workload moments in instrument flying. In just a few seconds, you're transitioning from landing to climbing, cleaning up the airplane, navigating the published missed approach, and communicating with ATC. Without a memorized procedure, it's easy to get behind the airplane.
In this lesson, we'll fly a VOR approach all the way through a real missed approach and demonstrate a simple memory flow you can use every time: the 5 Cs.
You'll learn:
When to begin the missed approach climb
The correct order for power, pitch, configuration, and communication
How to prioritize tasks using Aviate, Navigate, Communicate
Why many pilots try to do too much too soon
How to stay ahead of the airplane during one of the busiest phases of IFR flight
Tips for flying a VOR missed approach with multiple navigation radios
Whether you're preparing for your instrument checkride or just want a repeatable system you can rely on in IMC, this is a practical procedure you can use on every missed approach.
✈️ Master IFR flying with FlightInsight's complete Instrument Ground School:
flight-insight.com/ifr
📘 Download our free IFR Checkride Study Guide:
flight-insight.com/ifr-pdf
If you enjoy practical IFR training that focuses on real cockpit decision-making, not just passing the written, subscribe for new videos every week.
