What is the lowest decision height for a Category II applicant to be certified upon original authorization issuance?

The lowest decision height for a Category II applicant to be certified upon original authorization issuance is 150 feet above ground level (AGL). This decision height is crucial because it defines the minimum altitude at which a pilot must decide whether to continue the approach or execute a missed approach during an instrument landing in low-visibility conditions.

In Category II operations, which are typically characterized by the use of advanced technology and systems to enhance safety during approaches, a decision height of 150 feet allows for a certain level of safety margin while still permitting low visibility operations. At this height, pilots must have sufficient visual references to determine the runway environment, ensuring that they can safely land the aircraft.

This requirement is part of the operational standards set forth by aviation regulatory authorities to ensure that pilots are adequately trained for the complexities involved in landing under such conditions. Hence, the 150 feet AGL standard is accepted in the industry for original authorization issuance for Category II operations.