What distinguishes a visual approach from a contact approach?

Answer: B — visual approach is initiated by ATC while a contact approach is initiated by the pilot.

A visual approach is indeed initiated by air traffic control (ATC) as a way to allow pilots to visually navigate to the runway while maintaining separation from other aircraft. This is specifically designed for situations where weather conditions allow for visual references, and ATC is able to provide the necessary traffic information to accommodate the approach safely. In contrast, a contact approach is initiated by the pilot, who must indicate their intention to ATC. This approach allows an aircraft to proceed to the destination airport using visual references and is used when the visibility is sufficient, despite being under Instrument Flight Rules (IFR). The key distinction lies in the authority to initiate the approach: ATC controls the visual approach while the pilot has the responsibility to request a contact approach. This differentiation is critical in air traffic control operations, as it affects how pilots and control personnel interact during the final phases of flight.