When flying an instrument approach procedure, what must MAJCOMs ensure regarding aircraft categories?

When flying an instrument approach procedure, it is crucial that aircraft operate within their designated categories or higher. Each aircraft category is defined based on its approach speed, which influences safety margins during the approach and landing phases. Ensuring that aircraft adhere to their own category or a higher category helps maintain safe separation and appropriate operational parameters, reducing the risk of accidents.

For example, if a slower category aircraft were to be allowed to operate in procedures designed for a higher category, it could lead to conflicts in minimum safe altitudes or approach speeds, potentially resulting in hazardous situations, such as insufficient time to react to changes in weather or obstacles.

Therefore, adhering to this guideline ensures compliance with safety standards set forth by the FAA and aligns with the principles of the Terminal Instrument Procedures (TERPS), which outline how instrument procedures should be designed, taking into account the characteristics of different aircraft categories. This is essential for maintaining safety and efficiency in the airspace system.