What is a key consideration for a pilot when deciding to perform a go-around?

When considering a go-around, the stabilization of the approach path is a crucial factor for pilots. A stabilized approach means that the aircraft is on the correct flight path, configuration, and rate of descent to land safely. If the approach is not stable, the pilot may not be able to land safely, which justifies the decision to go around. A stable approach typically allows for predictable aircraft behavior, making it easier for the pilot to execute a safe landing.

If the approach is unstable—due to excessive altitude, incorrect airspeed, or misalignment with the runway—a go-around becomes necessary to ensure safety. This decision helps to avoid potential accidents, such as landing long or drifting off the centerline.

While considerations like the availability of alternate airports, weather conditions, and aircraft weight and balance are also important for overall flight safety and planning, they are secondary to the immediate need for a stable approach during landing. Your focus would always be to ensure that every landing attempt meets the required safety standards, which is fundamentally tied to how well the aircraft is managed during the final approach.