Missed - For Real

It had to happen. On the morning of August 18th I finally went "missed" on an approach that was not a practice approach. I had a meeting in Sedalia, Missouri planned for 9:00 and at 7:30, ceilings were still below minimum due to fog. I set out on the 45 minute flight hoping the fog would burn off prior to my arrival but knowing that I had clear skies 20 miles to the west of Sedalia. Initially, Whiteman Approach instructed me to expect a visual approach into the airport but, on my advice, cleared me for the GPS 36 approach. I descended into the clouds moments before reaching the initial approach fix and never saw the ground for the remainder of the approach. As the winds were calm, I chose to hold at the missed approach point and try the GPS 18. I wasn't expecting much better at that point but how often do you get to try twice with five hours of fuel on board and a clear alternate ten minutes away?

After sitting at Skyhaven (Warrensburg, MO) for 45 minutes ceilings had lifted above minimums so I was back on my way. True to the weather report, Sedalia was just above minimums and I had no difficulty getting in. The folks I was meeting were aware of my weather plight and holding the meeting for me and the local FBO gave me a ride. All in all it was a good day: three good approaches; one landing.