How should a pilot react when approaching a blue airport?

When approaching a blue airport on a sectional chart, pilots should understand that these airports typically indicate that they have an operating control tower and published instrument approaches. In this context, requesting a specific approach clearance is the correct action because it ensures compliance with air traffic control (ATC) procedures and allows for safe and orderly flow of air traffic.

By requesting a specific approach clearance, the pilot engages with ATC for guidance and instructions, which is essential for setting up for a safe landing at the controlled facility. This proactive communication with ATC also helps manage aircraft spacing and can provide essential information about the approach and expected traffic in the area.

In contrast, preparing for a visual approach without first consulting ATC may not be advised, especially in controlled airspace where clearances are mandatory. Making level turns without having the appropriate clearance could disrupt safe operations, and conducting a missed approach directly does not apply unless the approach was executed and the pilot decided not to land, which is a separate scenario entirely. Thus, the most responsible and correct response when approaching a blue airport is to request a specific approach clearance.