When should a pilot begin to initiate a go-around?

Initiating a go-around is a critical decision a pilot must make for safety during the landing phase of flight. The correct context for this decision is when the aircraft is not properly aligned for landing or if the approach is unstable. An unstable approach may involve excessive altitude or speed, poor runway alignment, or an inadequate rate of descent, which can compromise the safety and success of the landing.

By choosing to go-around under these circumstances, a pilot can regain control, re-evaluate the approach, and attempt to land again safely. This decision underscores the priority of safety over simply completing the landing when conditions are not right. Other factors, such as low fuel levels, immediate post-takeoff conditions, or bad weather, are relevant to aviation safety but do not directly relate to when a go-around should be initiated during an approach to landing.

In summary, the go-around should be initiated strictly based on the aircraft's state during the final approach and landing process, therefore ensuring both pilot and aircraft safety.