When is a pilot allowed to make a straight-in landing using an IAP with only circling minimums?

A pilot is permitted to make a straight-in landing when approaching a runway using an Instrument Approach Procedure (IAP) that only has circling minimums when the runway is in sight and they have received a clearance to land. The key factor here is that the approach may be conducted successfully with the visibility and the runway environment identified, as it allows the pilot to safely land without relying solely on circling approaches.

Circling minimums indicate that the pilot must be able to see the runway to execute a landing that might require maneuvering to align with the runway for a landing. Therefore, if the pilot has the runway in sight while being cleared to land, it is safe and compliant with regulations to perform a straight-in landing even if the IAP is designated for circling approaches. This scenario is common when conditions have improved, and the pilot can visually confirm their approach to the runway.