Which phase of flight has the most potential for deviations from guidelines?

The phase of flight with the most potential for deviations from guidelines is the final approach. During this stage, pilots are transitioning from cruising altitude to landing, which involves a multitude of critical tasks that require precise execution.

One reason final approach is notably complex is the need to adhere to specific criteria regarding altitude, airspeed, and alignment with the runway. The environment during final approach can also present challenges such as changing wind conditions, potential for increased traffic, and proximity to the airport environment, which can lead to deviations if not managed carefully. Distractions, increasing workload, and the necessity for timely decision-making contribute to the potential for deviations.

Moreover, this phase often involves the execution of various standard operating procedures, including the stabilization criteria which dictate that the aircraft should be on the correct glide path, under control, and at the appropriate speed by a certain distance from the runway. Any deviation from these parameters can lead to numerous issues, including unstable approaches or missed approaches.

In contrast, while the climb, descent, and cruise phases have their own sets of challenges, they typically allow for more margin in terms of handling and are less influenced by the intricate demands of the busy environment surrounding the airport. Thus, final approach stands out as the phase of flight with