wrote in message
oups.com...
What about FAR 97.3(p):
Procedure turn means the maneuver prescribed when it is necessary to
reverse direction to establish the aircraft on an intermediate or final
approach course.

Doesn't that say that its not always necesary?

No, it's ambiguous. It could mean either:
A. We prescribe a procedure turn when we think it is necessary for you to
reverse direction... (You are required to comply with this prescription,
except where 91.175a provides otherwise.); or
B. When we prescribe a procedure turn, you are required to comply, provided
that you think it is necessary to reverse direction.

The forthcoming new AIM passage resolves the ambiguity in favor of
interpretation A.

--Gary