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Aviation Dictionary

Decision height (DH)

A specified altitude in the precision approach, charted in height above threshold elevation, at which a decision must be made either to continue the approach or to execute a missed approach.

Dictionary Term

Decision height (DH)

Definitions

  • A specified altitude in the precision approach, charted in height above threshold elevation, at which a decision must be made either to continue the approach or to execute a missed approach.
  • Is a specified height above the ground in an instrument approach procedure at which the pilot must decide whether to initiate an immediate missed approach if the pilot does not see the required visual reference, or to continue the approach. Decision height is expressed in feet above ground level.

References

  • 14 C.F.R. Part 1, Federal Aviation Administration, 2026
  • Instrument Procedures Handbook, Federal Aviation Administration, 2017