What is a go-around?

If, close to the runway, you feel the engines suddenly power up and the aircraft climb again, you're most likely experiencing a go-around.

What happens?

At every stage of the approach, pilots check whether conditions are as they want them. If something isn't quite right, instead of continuing they add power, climb away, fly a circuit and approach again. This is called a go-around.

Why is it done?

• The aircraft ahead hasn't cleared the runway yet.
• The wind changed at the last moment.
• The aircraft is slightly outside the speed or height range set for the approach.
• Visibility is below the value required for landing.

In short, a go-around is pilots saying “let's do that again, with a better approach”.

How does it feel?

The engines suddenly get louder, the nose rises and you're pressed into your seat; a few seconds later you may hear the gear coming up. Then the aircraft settles into a calm climb and approaches again within 10–20 minutes. Pilots usually make a short announcement.

Routine for pilots

A go-around is one of the manoeuvres pilots practise most in the simulator and is kept ready as an option on every approach. It happens at airports every day, and the next landing is usually smooth.