What is the first item to consider when descending below MDA/DA?

The first item to consider when descending below Minimum Descent Altitude (MDA) or Decision Altitude (DA) is the position to descend and land at a normal rate. This aspect is crucial because it directly impacts the safety and success of the landing operation.

When you are approaching a point where you might descend, you need to ensure that you have the proper position aligned with the runway, allowing for a safe descent and landing. It involves evaluating your altitude and airspeed, ensuring that you can safely continue the approach and ultimately land without encountering obstacles or other hazards.

Maintaining a normal rate of descent is important because it helps avoid situations where the aircraft could potentially stall or descend too quickly, leading to a loss of control. This is especially critical during low visibility and other challenging conditions often encountered during IFR operations.

While other factors such as ensuring the responsiveness of navigation instruments, fuel levels, and confirming clear airspace are important elements of a safe approach, they follow the necessity of being in the correct position to safely perform the descent and landing. Without the correct position and descent rate, all the checks in the world won't compensate for an improper approach.