Which of the following best describes the cues indicating a stabilized approach has been achieved?

• A. Correct flight path, proper speed, configured with gear/flaps by around 1000 ft AGL, and a steady descent rate.
• B. Landing clearance obtained.
• C. Bottom line: just reach the runway.
• D. Speed below stall threshold.

Answer: (A)

On final approach, a stabilized state means the airplane is on the correct flight path, at the proper approach speed, and in the landing configuration with a steady descent rate by about 1000 ft above ground. This combination keeps energy management predictable and the aircraft controllable, setting up a safe, consistent transition to landing. If you delay configuring gear and flaps or let the descent rate become erratic, you’re not in a stabilized state even if you’re close to the runway. Landing clearance and simply reaching the runway don’t define stabilization themselves, and aiming for a speed well below stall is not how stabilization is described—maintain the appropriate approach speed and configuration instead.