How does a pilot perform a 'go-around'?

A pilot performs a 'go-around' by applying full power, retracting flaps, and establishing a positive rate of climb. This procedure is executed when the pilot determines that a safe landing cannot be achieved, and instead of continuing the landing approach, the aircraft must be lifted away from the ground to either attempt another landing or to enter a holding pattern.

Applying full power is essential to ensure that the aircraft can climb away from the runway safely and efficiently. Retraction of the flaps helps to set the aircraft back to a normal flight configuration to gain speed and ensure the optimal aerodynamic performance for climbing. Establishing a positive rate of climb indicates that the aircraft is gaining altitude and moving away from the risk of landing at an unsafe moment.

The other options present alternative actions that do not align with the correct procedure for a go-around. For instance, maintaining altitude and reducing speed would not contribute to getting the aircraft safely away from the runway, which is critical during a go-around scenario. Similarly, descending to the runway while increasing power would not be a safe maneuver if the intent is to abort a landing. Turning off the autopilot and descending immediately could lead to loss of control or insufficient engine performance to safely carry out a go-around. Thus, applying full