Shooting the famous LOC/DME-E at Aspen, Colorado KASE

Check out IFR Ground School at https://www.flight-insight.com/ifr We’re at 16,000 feet with oxygen masks on, flying into one of the most infamous instrument approaches in the United States: the LOC/DME Echo into Aspen, Colorado (KASE). This circling-only approach is notorious for its steep descent angle (6.59°), quick step-downs, and unique missed approach procedure that challenges even seasoned instrument pilots. In this video, we brief and fly the approach starting from the Red Table VOR (DBL transition), intercept the localizer, and manage the rapid descents through KICER, FIMSO, and DOYPE to minimums. Along the way, we cover: ✈️ Approach setup – frequencies, course (151°), altitudes, and ATIS/tower comms ✈️ Step-down fixes – why the short legs demand aggressive descent rates ✈️ Circling vs. straight-in minimums – how true airspeed can push you into Cat B ✈️ The missed approach – climbing right turn to 14,000 feet and outbound on the backcourse ✈️ High altitude considerations – performance, descent rates, and icing risks This approach demonstrates why Aspen requires special training for airline crews and why it’s a bucket-list challenge for GA instrument pilots. Whether you’re an IFR student, a CFI, or just an aviation enthusiast, you’ll see firsthand the decision-making and precision flying required to safely attempt the LOC/DME Echo.