AIM DECODED

5-4-25. Contact Approach

By Chris Palmer, 2x Master Aviation Educator · Gold Seal CFI · Updated May 21, 2026

AIM 5-4-25 All of Chapter 5 →

AIM Text

  1. Pilots operating in accordance with an IFR flight plan, provided they are clear of clouds and have at least 1 mile flight visibility and can reasonably expect to continue to the destination airport in those conditions, may request ATC authorization for a contact approach.
  2. Controllers may authorize a contact approach provided:
    1. The contact approach is specifically requested by the pilot. ATC cannot initiate this approach.
    2. The reported ground visibility at the destination airport is at least 1 statute mile.
    3. The contact approach will be made to an airport having a standard or special instrument approach procedure.
    4. Approved separation is applied between aircraft so cleared and between these aircraft and other IFR or special VFR aircraft.
  3. A contact approach is an approach procedure that may be used by a pilot (with prior authorization from ATC) in lieu of conducting a standard or special IAP to an airport. It is not intended for use by a pilot on an IFR flight clearance to operate to an airport not having a published and functioning IAP. Nor is it intended for an aircraft to conduct an instrument approach to one airport and then, when “in the clear,” discontinue that approach and proceed to another airport. In the execution of a contact approach, the pilot assumes the responsibility for obstruction clearance. If radar service is being received, it will automatically terminate when the pilot is instructed to change to advisory frequency.

Source: FAA Aeronautical Information Manual · current edition · paragraph 5-4-25.

Research Notes

AIM 5-4-25 covers Landing Priority — when ATC may give priority handling for landing.

Priority categories:

  • Emergency: Distress calls (Mayday, Pan-Pan) receive immediate priority
  • Air Force One / VIP: Presidential and VIP movements receive priority
  • Medical / hospital: Medical evacuation aircraft typically receive priority
  • Lifeguard: Coast Guard SAR may use "Lifeguard" call sign for priority

How to request priority: Declare the situation. "Cessna Two-Three-Uniform, minimum fuel" alerts ATC to expedited handling. "Mayday" gets full priority.

Reference: AIM 5-4-25; AIM 6-3 (Distress and Urgency Procedures).

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