What happens if you cannot sight the runway after descending below DH?

When an aircraft descends below the Decision Height (DH) and the runway is not visible, executing a missed approach is the appropriate action to ensure safety. The decision to execute a missed approach is based on the fundamental principle of maintaining safety and adhering to regulations.

The missed approach procedure allows the aircraft to safely climb away from the terrain and reposition for another attempt to land once visibility improves or conditions become more favorable. This is critical because continuing to attempt to land without visual reference can lead to dangerous situations, including controlled flight into terrain or other obstacles.

Visibility may be temporarily reduced due to weather conditions, and maintaining altitude while re-evaluating the situation helps ensure that all safety protocols are followed. This response is not just a best practice but a necessary protocol aligned with aviation safety standards.

In contrast, the other options do not prioritize safety effectively. Landing immediately if visibility improves is risky without being certain that the approach is stable and clear. Securing a confirmed approach clearance can be important, but it does not address the immediate lack of visual reference. Continuously circling until visibility improves lacks a structured and safe approach to deal with low-visibility conditions.