The segment of an instrument approach procedure between the
initial approach fix and the intermediate approach fix or, where applicable, the final approach fix or point (ICAO). In the
initial approach, the aircraft has departed the en route structure and is maneuvering to enter the intermediate approach segment. The aircraft speed and configuration will depend on the distance from the aerodrome and the descent required. The
initial approach segment provides at least 1000 ft (300 m) of obstacle clearance in the primary area. Normally, track guidance is provided along the
initial approach segment to the intermediate fix, with a maximum angle of interception of 90° for a precision approach and 120° for a non-precision approach. Where no track guidance is provided, the alternative is to have a dead-reckoning segment from a fix to the localizer. Where no suitable
initial approach fix or intermediate fix is available, a reversal procedure, racetrack, or holding procedure is required to be flown. See
initial approach (i).