When is a 'final approach' to an airport typically initiated?

The initiation of a 'final approach' to an airport occurs when an aircraft has descended from cruising altitude, is aligned with the runway, and is on a direct path to land. This phase typically follows the approach segment, which might involve transitioning from higher altitudes at a distance from the airport to a lower altitude as the aircraft approaches the runway threshold.

During the final approach, pilots focus on stabilizing the aircraft, maintaining the proper glide path, and preparing for a smooth landing. Proper alignment with the runway is crucial as it ensures that the aircraft approaches in a controlled manner, enabling a safe landing.

In contrast, initiating final approach while still cruising at high altitude or during a takeoff would not make sense, as the aircraft would not be in a position to land. Holding patterns are used to manage air traffic and could occur before final approach, but they do not represent the act of landing itself.