EASA SIB 2010-18: Go-Around Callout and Immediate Response

What to do

Operators of aircraft with two-pilot crews should publish or reinforce written policies that empower both pilots to call for a go-around and require the pilot flying to immediately execute a missed approach upon such a callout. Training programs and crew resource management procedures should be updated accordingly. No specific compliance deadline is stated, but timely implementation is recommended to enhance safety.

Summary

EASA Safety Information Bulletin SIB No: 2010-18 is an advisory document addressing go-around callout and immediate response procedures for all aeroplanes and helicopters with a two-pilot flight crew. It supports the FAA Safety Alert for Operators SAFO 10005, emphasizing that either pilot may initiate a go-around callout and that the pilot flying must immediately execute a missed approach. The bulletin aims to enhance flight safety during approach and landing phases by promoting clear and immediate go-around actions.

What changed

This bulletin introduces a recommendation that operators establish or reinforce written policies allowing either pilot to call for a go-around and requiring an immediate missed approach response from the pilot flying. It aligns EASA guidance with FAA recommendations following an incident involving an Embraer ERJ-170 runway overrun. The document does not impose mandatory requirements but encourages adoption of these procedures to improve safety.

Why it matters

The bulletin addresses a critical safety issue where hesitation or failure to execute a go-around can lead to accidents during approach and landing, which are among the highest risk phases of flight. By clarifying that either pilot can initiate a go-around and that the response must be immediate, it supports better crew resource management and reduces the risk of runway excursions or other landing incidents. Operators, training directors, and safety personnel benefit from clear guidance to prevent accidents caused by delayed go-around decisions.