If a drag approach is requested, it shall be initiated at a minimum distance of ____ nm for jet/turboprop aircraft.

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In a drag approach you deliberately increase drag to slow the airplane and steepen the descent so you can reach the landing configuration and the required final approach speed while staying on a stabilized path. The point to begin this approach is chosen so there’s enough distance to deploy drag devices (flaps, speed brakes) and to configure for landing without compromising altitude or glide path. For jet and turboprop aircraft, the standard minimum distance to initiate this drag-based approach is one and a half nautical miles. Starting at this distance gives enough room to decelerate smoothly, set the proper configuration, and remain stable on the approach. Beginning earlier would waste energy management opportunities, while starting later wouldn’t provide sufficient time to achieve the required speed and configuration before the final segment.