Low Approach
The practice of IFR low approaches to minimums does not violate the restrictions in FAR 91.119.
LOW APPROACH- An approach over an airport or runway following an instrument approach or a VFR approach including the go - around maneuver where the pilot intentionally does not make contact with the runway.
The shallow approach is normal in every way except that the pilot plans his decelleration such that he arrives at his touchdown spot just above translational lift airspeed. This insures that adequate power will be available.
That's partially a function of the model's low approach speeds, and also because the airplane is a reasonably tough machine.
The advantage of this position is a good view over the ridge and a shallow approach angle (which in turn gives a shallow escape angle).
A low approach, below traffic pattern or a touch and go operation is counted as both a landing and a takeoff, i.e., two operations.
Conversely, if you fly a too-shallow approach, you need to worry about running into obstructions. It also leaves you with fewer options in the event of an engine failure on final.
Airport Operation: A landing or a takeoff at an airport. (A low approach below traffic pattern altitude or a touch-and-go operation are counted as both a landing and a takeoff; i.e., two operations.) ...
 See also: Pilot, Altitude, Maintain, Flight, Landing
  
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