What does the circling MDA found on the individual IAP refer to?

The circling Minimum Descent Altitude (MDA) indicated on individual Instrument Approach Procedures (IAP) pertains to the altitude that pilots must not go below while maneuvering in the circling approach phase. This minimum is crucial during the final stages of an approach when pilots transition from an instrument approach to visual flight rules (VFR) conditions.

It is important to recognize that the circling MDA applies to non-RADAR approaches because it is designed for situations where a pilot is responsible for maintaining visual reference to the airport and its surroundings after an instrument approach. Non-RADAR approaches, including certain types of RNAV and other procedures, rely on this altitude for safe maneuvering because no radar guidance is provided to assist with the landing.

While the circling MDA is primarily associated with non-RADAR approaches, it is not limited to them exclusively. RADAR approaches can also have circling minimums, but they are not the specific focus when referencing the circling MDA for non-RADAR approaches in the context of this question. Therefore, identifying the MDA as relevant only to non-RADAR approaches neglects that radar approaches have their considerations as well. Thus, it's essential to recognize the broader applicability of these alt