Which steps define a stable approach with LNAV/VNAV and autothrust engaged?

• A. Disconnect autothrust and hand-fly to touchdown.
• B. Engage go-around mode and climb away from the runway.
• C. Engage approach mode, ensure vertical and lateral guidance is active, autothrust maintains target speed, prepare for landing and flare.
• D. Disable LNAV/VNAV and fly visually.

Answer: (C)

A stable approach with LNAV/VNAV and autothrust engaged means the aircraft remains on the published approach path with consistent speed and configuration, using automation to manage both path and airspeed. Engaging approach mode captures and follows the navigation path, providing both lateral guidance (the course) and vertical guidance (the glide path or constant descent angle) from the VNAV/LNAV system. With autothrust engaged, the airplane maintains the target approach speed, reducing the likelihood of speed fluctuations that can upset descent, energy management, or the ability to meet the required flight path. Preparing for landing and flare completes the process by configuring the aircraft for landing (appropriate flap/gear settings and descent to the decision altitude or minimums) and transitioning smoothly to the final landing phase.

Other approaches would break the automation or the stabilization plan: disconnecting autothrust and hand-flying to touchdown removes the speed stability that supports a smooth glide path. Going around focuses on aborting the approach rather than maintaining a stabilized approach. Disabling LNAV/VNAV and flying visually eliminates the instrument guidance and the vertical navigation that define the stabilized path.