When cleared for an approach via a VOR or TACAN, what can affect your descent?

When cleared for an approach via a VOR or TACAN, several factors influence your descent, making "all of the above" the correct choice.

Weather conditions play a crucial role in safe flying, as poor visibility or adverse weather can require pilots to alter their approach strategies and minimum descent altitudes. Aircraft weight is also significant; a heavier aircraft may require a longer distance to stop and thus may need to adjust its descent profile to maintain a safe approach.

Moreover, instrument approaches are designed with specific visibility criteria that must be adhered to. If visibility is below those criteria, it could necessitate a missed approach or a holding pattern instead of descending to land.

The published approach procedure lays out the specific altitudes, waypoints, and descent profiles that should be followed. Deviating from these procedures without proper justification can lead to safety concerns. The decision to descend is governed by the combination of following the published procedure, being aware of weather conditions, and ensuring that the aircraft is at an appropriate weight for landing.

Hence, all of these factors collectively impact your descent when approaching via a VOR or TACAN.