Procedure Turn
What is procedure turn?
A procedure turn is a maneuver flown during an instrument approach to reverse course and establish the aircraft inbound on the intermediate or final approach course. It also lets you descend from the initial approach fix or assigned altitude down to the procedure turn altitude. Common types include the 45° turn, the 80/260 turn, and the teardrop, and they're normally completed within 10 nautical miles of the primary airport. Think of it as a "U-turn with a purpose"—it gets you turned around and lined up while losing altitude for the approach.
Also known as: PT, course reversal
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