Caravan 208B
Flight Crew Air Transport Pilot (ATP)
Situational Awareness; Time Pressure; Workload
Deviation / Discrepancy - Procedural Published Material / Policy; Inflight Event / Encounter Fuel Issue; Inflight Event / Encounter Weather / Turbulence
Air Traffic Control Issued New Clearance; Flight Crew Executed Go Around / Missed Approach; Flight Crew Became Reoriented; Flight Crew Requested ATC Assistance / Clarification
Chart Or Publication; Procedure; Weather
I was dispatched for flight and preflight planning showed that the flight could be conducted under VFR; and was confirmed and released after a preflight conversation with [Dispatch]. Accordingly I departed with VFR fuel requirements; without a planned alternate. The flight was unremarkable until I was 40 NM out of my destination; when I checked the AFIS broadcast. The AFIS reported 1/4 mile visibilities with RVR of 1200V2000. I did not have sufficient fuel to divert to another airport and decided to contact Center. Center issued me a pop up clearance and asked if I was able to join the hold at 9000 ft. I informed center that I was minimum fuel and would like to initiate the approach to rwy 28 immediately. My request was approved by Center and I initiated the approach which resulted in a missed approach. Center asked my intentions; and I stated that the visibility on the west end of the runway appeared to be better than the east end; and I requested the approach to rwy 10. This approach resulted in a successful landing on rwy 10. With the available fuel on board; about 40 minutes at the time of landing; I feel my decision to make the approach was my best; and safest option.The lesson I have taken away from this event is that I will no longer trust the TAF to make my fuel planning decisions and will subsequently carry more fuel in order to allow myself an 'escape plan' to a more suitable landing alternate in the future due to the possibility of deteriorating weather conditions at my intended landing airport.
C208B pilot was dispatched with minimum fuel to a remote airport forecasted to remain VFR. Upon arrival; the airport was IMC and he missed the first approach; but landed on the second approach on the runway opposite direction. TAF forecasts to remote airports should be questioned.