Aviation safety remains a top priority for airlines, pilots, and regulators around the world. In 2025, new updates and guidance have been released to further strengthen the procedures and training around one of the most important safety maneuvers in aviation: the go-around. This update provides a clear summary of what has changed, who is affected, the effective dates, required actions, and the implications for both current and future aviation professionals, including those with pending applications for pilot licenses or aviation jobs in the United States 🇺🇸 and other countries.
Understanding the go-around, its role in aviation safety, and the latest policy changes is essential For Pilots, air traffic controllers, airline operators, and anyone involved in the aviation industry. The recent incident involving a Delta flight pilot who used a go-around to avoid a mid-air collision highlights the real-world importance of these procedures and the ongoing efforts to keep air travel safe.
Summary of What Changed in 2025
In 2025, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and industry partners have renewed their focus on the go-around maneuver. This includes updated guidance, new training requirements, and a strong push to remove any negative perceptions about using a go-around. The main changes are:
- Updated FAA Guidance (April 2025): The FAA has clarified that a go-around should be started any time a safe landing cannot be guaranteed. Both pilots and air traffic controllers (ATC) are now clearly empowered to call for a go-around at any time, without hesitation.
- New Safety Bulletins: The FAA Air Traffic Procedures Bulletin 2025-01, released in January 2025, states that any flight deck crewmember can start a go-around for safety reasons. Communication with ATC should happen as soon as possible, but the first focus must be on controlling the aircraft.
- Enhanced Training and Simulation: Airlines and flight schools now require more scenario-based training for go-arounds, especially for unexpected or stressful situations. This is to make sure pilots are ready for real-life events.
- No Stigma Policy: There is a strong industry push to remove any negative feelings or hesitation about using a go-around. It is now seen as a sign of good judgment and professionalism, not a mistake or failure.
Who Is Affected by These Changes?
The 2025 updates affect several groups within the aviation community:
- Pilots (Commercial, Private, and Student): All pilots must follow the new guidance and complete the updated training requirements. This includes those applying for new licenses or renewing existing ones.
- Air Traffic Controllers: ATC staff must be ready to handle go-arounds at any time and provide clear instructions to pilots. They also need to complete new training modules on go-around coordination.
- Airlines and Flight Schools: Operators must update their training programs and safety manuals to match the new FAA guidance. They are also responsible for making sure all flight crews understand and follow the new procedures.
- Aviation Safety Inspectors and Regulators: Inspectors must check that airlines and pilots are following the new rules during audits and safety checks.
- Applicants for Aviation Jobs or Licenses: Anyone with a pending application for a pilot license, ATC certification, or aviation job must be aware of the new requirements and be ready to show knowledge of the updated go-around procedures.
Effective Dates
- April 2025: The updated FAA guidance on go-arounds became effective.
- January 2025: The FAA Air Traffic Procedures Bulletin 2025-01 was released, providing detailed instructions for both pilots and ATC.
- Ongoing: Airlines and flight schools are rolling out the new training programs throughout 2025. All pilots and controllers must complete the updated training by the end of the year.
Required Actions for Pilots, ATC, and Operators
To comply with the new rules and maintain aviation safety, the following actions are required:
For Pilots:
– Complete the new scenario-based go-around training as part of regular simulator sessions.
– Review and understand the updated FAA guidance and safety bulletins.
– Be ready to initiate a go-around at any time if a safe landing cannot be assured.
– Communicate with ATC as soon as possible after starting a go-around, but always focus on flying the aircraft first.
For Air Traffic Controllers:
– Complete the new training modules on go-around management and coordination.
– Be prepared to instruct a go-around if needed to keep aircraft safely separated.
– Provide clear, quick instructions to pilots during and after a go-around.
For Airlines and Flight Schools:
– Update all training materials and safety manuals to match the new FAA guidance.
– Make sure all pilots and instructors are trained on the latest go-around procedures.
– Encourage a positive safety culture where go-arounds are seen as good decision-making.
For Applicants with Pending Applications:
– Study the new go-around procedures and be ready to answer questions about them in exams or interviews.
– Complete any required training or simulator sessions before the end of 2025.
Step-by-Step Go-Around Procedure (2025 Standard)
The go-around is a well-practiced, step-by-step maneuver that every pilot must know. The 2025 standard procedure is as follows:
- Power Application: Immediately apply full or the correct amount of power to the engines to start a safe climb.
- Pitch Adjustment: Raise the nose of the aircraft to a climb position, making sure the plane is climbing but not at risk of stalling.
- Flap and Gear Management: Once the plane is climbing, slowly retract the flaps as needed. Retract the landing gear when it is safe to do so.
- Communicate with ATC: Tell air traffic control about the go-around as soon as you can safely do so. This helps ATC manage other planes and give you new instructions.
- Aircraft Configuration: Change the plane from landing setup to climb setup. Control your speed and altitude, and get ready for another approach or to go to a different airport if needed.
Common Reasons for Go-Arounds
Go-arounds are not rare or unusual. They are a normal part of flying and can happen for many reasons, including:
- Unstabilized Approach: The plane is not lined up correctly, is too high or low, or is not set up for landing.
- Runway Not Clear: Another plane or object is on the runway, or there is not enough space between planes.
- Weather or Visibility Issues: Sudden changes in wind, poor visibility, or not meeting the minimum requirements for landing.
- ATC Instruction: Air traffic control may tell a pilot to go around to keep planes safely separated.
- Aircraft Performance or Technical Issues: Problems like wind shear, system warnings, or anything else that could make landing unsafe.
Practical Implications and Policy Effects
The 2025 updates have several important effects on aviation safety and daily operations:
- Safety Comes First: Pilots are always encouraged to choose a go-around over a risky landing. Safety is the top priority.
- No Stigma: There is a strong message from airlines and regulators that go-arounds are a sign of good judgment. Pilots should never feel embarrassed or punished for choosing safety.
- ATC Coordination: Air traffic controllers are trained to expect go-arounds, especially at busy airports. They are ready to give quick instructions to keep all planes safe.
- Reporting and Analysis: Every go-around, especially those involving safety concerns, is reported and studied. This helps improve procedures and prevent future problems.
Recent High-Profile Example: Delta Flight Pilot Dodges Collision
A recent incident involving a Delta flight pilot shows how important the go-around is for aviation safety. In this case:
- The Delta pilot noticed a possible conflict with another aircraft, called “B,” during the landing approach.
- The pilot quickly started a go-around, following the standard steps.
- This action prevented a possible runway accident or mid-air collision.
- After the go-around, the Delta flight and ATC worked together to safely bring the plane in for another landing.
- Both Delta and the FAA reviewed the incident and praised the pilot and crew for their quick thinking and following their training.
This real-life example shows that the go-around is not just a theory or a training exercise. It is a vital tool that saves lives and keeps passengers and crew safe.
Expert and Stakeholder Perspectives
Different groups in aviation all agree on the importance of the go-around:
- Pilots and Instructors: Stress the need for regular practice and realistic training. Pilots must be ready for unexpected situations and know exactly what to do.
- Regulators (FAA): Continue to update rules and training to make sure go-arounds are seen as normal and essential for safety.
- Airlines: Work to create a safety culture where go-arounds are encouraged and never punished. They want pilots to feel comfortable making the safe choice.
Future Outlook and Anticipated Developments
Looking ahead, the aviation industry is working on several improvements related to go-arounds and aviation safety:
- Increased Automation and Decision Support: Research is underway to develop cockpit tools that help pilots know when a go-around is needed.
- Enhanced Training: More advanced simulator scenarios and regular training sessions are being added, especially for busy airports or complex situations.
- Data-Driven Safety Initiatives: Airlines and regulators are studying go-around data to find trends, improve procedures, and reduce the risk of accidents.
Implications for Pending Applications and Immigration
For those applying for pilot licenses, ATC jobs, or other aviation roles in the United States 🇺🇸 or other countries, these changes mean:
- Updated Exam Content: Written and practical exams now include questions and scenarios about the new go-around procedures.
- Training Requirements: Applicants must complete the new training modules before being approved.
- Job Interviews: Airlines and aviation employers may ask about your understanding of the go-around and your attitude toward safety decisions.
- Visa and Immigration Applications: If you are applying for a work visa or permanent residency as an aviation professional, you may need to show proof of up-to-date training and knowledge of current safety procedures.
For official information on pilot licensing and training requirements in the United States 🇺🇸, you can visit the FAA’s Become a Pilot page.
Actionable Takeaways and Next Steps
- For Pilots and Trainees: Make sure you have completed the latest go-around training and understand the new procedures. Be ready to discuss them in exams, interviews, or during check rides.
- For ATC Staff: Finish the new training modules and practice quick, clear communication during go-arounds.
- For Airlines and Operators: Update all manuals, training programs, and safety policies to match the 2025 guidance.
- For Applicants: Check that your training records are current and be prepared to show your knowledge of go-around procedures during the application process.
As reported by VisaVerge.com, these changes reflect a global commitment to aviation safety and a recognition that the go-around is a key part of keeping passengers, crew, and aircraft safe. The Delta flight pilot’s quick decision to use a go-around is a powerful reminder that following training and procedures can prevent accidents and save lives.
In summary, the 2025 updates to go-around procedures and training are now in effect. They apply to all pilots, air traffic controllers, airlines, and aviation professionals, including those with pending applications. The changes stress the importance of safety, clear communication, and ongoing training. By following these updated procedures, the aviation community can continue to protect everyone who flies and works in the skies.
Learn Today
Go-around → A maneuver where pilots abort landing to climb and try another approach safely.
FAA → Federal Aviation Administration, the U.S. agency regulating civil aviation and safety.
Air Traffic Controller → A professional who directs aircraft movement to maintain safe distances in airspace.
Simulator Training → Realistic aircraft scenarios used to train pilots on emergency and normal procedures.
Safety Bulletin → Official FAA communications providing updated safety practices and operational guidance.
This Article in a Nutshell
In 2025, aviation safety advances with FAA’s enhanced go-around procedures and training, emphasizing safety, communication, and professionalism for pilots and controllers worldwide.
— By VisaVerge.com
