When are you considered established inbound?

The concept of being considered "established inbound" primarily refers to the point at which an aircraft is aligned with the intended approach course. The correct choice indicates that this alignment is confirmed when the Course Deviation Indicator (CDI) becomes active, meaning the aircraft is on the correct path toward the runway or waypoints as outlined in the approach procedure.

When the CDI comes alive, it reflects that the aircraft is correctly tracking the glide slope or localizer signal, which is essential for safe navigation during an approach. This moment signifies that the pilot can begin making definitive actions toward completing the approach and landing.

In contrast, other points in the flight path—like reaching the initial approach fix, crossing the Final Approach Fix (FAF), or waiting for clearance from air traffic control—do not necessarily guarantee that the aircraft is established on the appropriate approach course. While these points are important in the overall sequencing and navigation of an approach, they do not specifically indicate that the aircraft is aligned with the final approach path.