What is an IAF (Initial Approach Fix)?

• A. Fix at commencement of instrument approach
• B. Point of runway threshold
• C. Altitude at which descent begins
• D. Final approach fix

Answer: (A)

An Initial Approach Fix marks where an instrument approach begins. It’s a published navigational point that defines the start of the initial approach segment, used to transition from en-route or arrival to the approach path. From this point you fly toward subsequent segments—often to an intermediate fix, or you may perform a course reversal or a hold to align with the inbound course—before continuing toward the final approach. This point helps structure the approach in stages, ensuring you descend and navigate in a controlled, published sequence.

It’s not the runway threshold, which is the end point of the landing phase. It’s not the altitude at which you begin descent—descent points are defined along the procedure and may occur later in the approach sequence. It’s also not the final approach fix, which marks the start of the final approach segment rather than the initial one.