What is the phraseology for an aircraft on an unplanned IFR missed approach to Runway 10L?

• A. TURN LEFT HEADING 340, CLIMB AND MAINTAIN 3,000
• B. TURN RIGHT HEADING 020, CLIMB AND MAINTAIN 3,000
• C. TURN LEFT HEADING 020, CLIMB AND MAINTAIN 3,000
• D. TURN RIGHT HEADING 340, CLIMB AND MAINTAIN 3,000

Answer: (A)

In an IFR missed approach, ATC clears you to begin the missed approach path with a specific turn direction, an initial heading, and an altitude to reach. The instruction to turn left to a heading toward the northwest, then climb and maintain a specific altitude, is standard wording that puts you on the published missed-approach track and ensures you gain the necessary obstacle clearance as you begin the climb.

This particular phraseology matches the required initial maneuver for Runway ten left: execute a left-hand turn to a northwestward heading and start climbing to the published altitude. The left turn direction is chosen to keep you away from obstacles and congested areas on the missed-approach path, and the initial heading places you on the correct track to join the procedure safely. Maintaining the specified altitude after the turn ensures you clear terrain and other airspace before further clearance is given.

Other options would direct you to turn the opposite direction or to a different initial heading, which would not align with the published missed-approach path and could compromise obstacle clearance and airspace separation.