New Safety Initiative Encourages Pilots: Embrace the Go-Around, Don’t Persist

A fresh wave in general aviation safety is making waves across the pilot community. This initiative, spearheaded by Arizona-based flight instructor Jim Pitman, is designed to change the perception of the go-around maneuver. It’s not a failure but a testament to sound aeronautical decision-making. The goal is to make it a norm among GA pilots, regardless of their experience levels.

This campaign is set against a backdrop of unchanging safety data. The approach and landing phase is the most accident-prone in flight, responsible for approximately 65% of all general aviation accidents each year, as per the Flight Safety Foundation. However, research indicates that only about 3% of unstable approaches lead to go-around compliance. This shockingly low figure is what the campaign aims to address directly.

Pitman’s initiative motivates flight schools, instructors, and pilots to view the go-around as a standard, positive technique. It’s something to be practiced and applauded, not seen as a source of shame. This movement is part of a larger effort in 2026 by organizations like the FAA and EASA to foster stronger safety cultures within general aviation. Advocates of the campaign believe that making go-arounds commonplace could avert a significant number of approach-related accidents annually.

Source: General Aviation News – New Safety Campaign Reframes Go-Arounds as Positive ADM (September 18, 2026)