A/P engaged for Non-Precision Approach occurs at what altitude above ground level?

A/P engaged for Non-Precision Approach occurs at what altitude above ground level?

• A. 400 Feet AGL
• B. 600 Feet AGL
• C. 80 Feet AGL
• D. 120 Feet AGL

Answer: (A)

Engaging the autopilot on a non-precision approach is done at a level that gives you a stabilized, hands-off path while still leaving enough time to transition to landing or execute a missed approach if needed. 400 feet above ground level provides that balance: it’s low enough to allow you to complete the approach with a controlled descent and to capture or track the localizer smoothly, but high enough to give you time to verify the runway environment and configure for landing without rushing. If you waited higher, like around 600 feet, you’d delay automation a bit too much and reduce the autopilot’s help during the critical final segment. If you waited down near 80 or 120 feet, you’d be approaching the decision or minimum descent altitude with very little margin to react or disengage if the approach isn’t visual or safe to continue.

Engaging the autopilot on a non-precision approach is done at a level that gives you a stabilized, hands-off path while still leaving enough time to transition to landing or execute a missed approach if needed. 400 feet above ground level provides that balance: it’s low enough to allow you to complete the approach with a controlled descent and to capture or track the localizer smoothly, but high enough to give you time to verify the runway environment and configure for landing without rushing.

If you waited higher, like around 600 feet, you’d delay automation a bit too much and reduce the autopilot’s help during the critical final segment. If you waited down near 80 or 120 feet, you’d be approaching the decision or minimum descent altitude with very little margin to react or disengage if the approach isn’t visual or safe to continue.