When going missed, what must the crew first identify?

When transitioning to a missed approach, the crew is required to first identify the reason for the missed approach. This understanding is critical as it influences the subsequent actions and decisions made during the missed approach phase. Knowing why the approach was not completed successfully helps the crew to deal more effectively with any underlying issues, be it weather, aircraft performance, or other factors.

Furthermore, recognizing the specific reason enables the crew to assess whether it’s appropriate to attempt another approach to the same airport or if they need to divert to an alternate location. Identifying the reason aids in maintaining situational awareness and ensuring that all necessary safety protocols are followed, which is essential during this critical phase of flight.

While weather conditions, flight path adjustments, and passenger instructions are important factors to consider, they come after the crew has established the reasoning for the missed approach, as it is this understanding that prioritizes the safety and efficiency of the aircraft operations.