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Visual Approaches
As far as efficiency goes, the most expeditious type of approach a pilot can make is the visual. As long as the weather conditions permit this type of approach, controllers generally like to use them because they allow for a reduced separation standard between IFR aircraft. There are a few important points that pilots should note when considering a visual approach.
First of all, maintaining visual separation from another aircraft is not the same as flying VFR. If an aircraft is on a visual approach, it is still considered to be an IFR airplane. The controller will still provide IFR separation from an aircraft on a visual approach and any subsequent IFR traffic.
A visual approach may be approved if there weather conditions at the airport meet the prescribed minima, and the aircraft reports sighting a) the airport; or b) the traffic it will be instructed to follow. Controllers and pilots must be very careful to ensure the correct traffic has been identified visually as aircraft have been known to sight and follow the wrong aircraft on a visual approach!
If the pilot has sighted the airport and they are number one for the field, they should fly the visual as well as the missed approach procedure for the runway specified if necessary. Remember, they are still an IFR airplane.
If the aircraft is instructed to follow preceding IFR traffic, the pilot must be sure to maintain his or her own separation from that traffic on the approach.
If weather conditions permit, do not hesitate to request a visual approach from a controller if you feel it will be an operational advantage. While the controller may not approve the request due to traffic or other factors, it is often the most expeditious way to handle subsequent arrivals. The pilot also has the luxury of knowing that other IFR aircraft will continue to be separated from his or her aircraft, unlike if he or she had cancelled IFR altogether.
Remember as well that an unspecified approach clearance in IFR does NOT permit an aircraft to conduct a visual or contact approach. Nevertheless, the visual approach is a useful tool for pilots, controllers and overall system efficiency when used properly.