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An unstabilized approach occurs when an aircraft does not meet established criteria for safe landing prior to reaching a certain altitude. This situation can arise from various factors, including miscalculations, unexpected air traffic control directives, or pilot workload, leading to potential accidents if not addressed promptly.
To fully understand this concept, it's vital to recognize the three energy states an aircraft possesses during flight: potential energy (related to altitude), kinetic energy (related to speed), and chemical energy (the fuel in tanks). Throughout a flight, pilots must manage these energy states effectively, especially during descent, to avoid high-energy situations where the aircraft could be dangerously high or fast during landing.