How would you define a stabilized approach?

A stabilized approach is defined as maintaining a stable approach speed, descent rate, and flight path all the way to touchdown. This means that as the aircraft descends toward the runway, it should consistently be in a controlled descent, avoiding abrupt changes in attitude or speed. The pilot needs to ensure that the aircraft is on the correct flight path, that the descent rate is appropriate, and that the airspeed is within the prescribed limits for landing.

This concept is critical for safety and performance because a stabilized approach minimizes the risks of unexpected changes that could lead to an unstable landing situation. Such stability allows for a smoother touchdown and reduces the workload for the pilot, as they can focus on managing the landing rather than constantly making adjustments. It follows standard aviation practices aimed at preventing accidents caused by sudden or unintended changes in the approach dynamics.

In contrast, choosing options that suggest maintaining altitude until touchdown, having a high descent rate, or flying in a straight line without adjustments do not encompass the essence of a stabilized approach. These alternatives lack the requirement for control over speed and descent rate or may not allow for the necessary adjustments to be made as conditions change throughout the approach phase.