Pilot Institute

JANUARY 14, 2025

Even driving a car can be dangerous in foggy weather. So, how do pilots manage to land their aircraft safely and accurately without even being able to see where theyre going? The ILS (Instrument Landing System) uses radio signals to help pilots align the aircraft accurately on their approach to a runway.

Approach 98

Approach Descent Runway Instrument Landing System 98

Pilot Institute

FEBRUARY 15, 2025

Well, one important thing youll need to know is RNAV approaches. These approaches use GPS to help you land and offer more flexibility than traditional systems like ILS. In this guide, you’ll learn how RNAV approaches work, the different types available, and tips to make them feel natural and straightforward.

Approach 52

Approach Pilot Descent Airplanes 52

Pilot Institute

NOVEMBER 19, 2024

Are you curious about flying a VOR approach? If you’re aiming to master instrument-rated flying, it’d be valuable to learn about VOR approaches. We’ll cover what a VOR approach is, how to fly it step-by-step, and even whether GPS can replace it in today’s navigation. Ready to make VOR approaches easy?

VOR 52

VOR Approach Descent Final Approach 52

Pilot Institute

OCTOBER 17, 2024

Performing a safe landing requires skillful flying and clear visual guidance. They are the Visual Approach Slope Indicator and Precision Approach Path Indicator. These systems are designed to help you stay on the correct glide path as you approach the runway. VASI and PAPI each have their own approach.

Runway 98

Runway Approach Threshold Clearance 98

Plane and Pilot

SEPTEMBER 7, 2024

GPS is everywhere, from our wristwatches and cell phones to the complete selection of RNAV departures, approaches and T routes that comprise the majority of the under-12,500-foot airspace system. The Instrument Landing System (ILS) seems safe for now, but LPV approaches are cheap, accurate, and are everywhere.

Cockpit 106

Cockpit Instrument Landing System Approach Pilot 106

Plane and Pilot

NOVEMBER 19, 2024

The first flight got weathered out, with broken clouds at 1,500 feet. The plan was to shoot an instrument landing system (ILS) at the military airport next door, but clearance delivery told us they were landing the other direction. Hmm, OK, how about the LPV approach? We have to ask for GPS approaches.)

Pitot Tube 86

Pitot Tube Approach Aileron Instrument Landing System 86

Pilot Institute

DECEMBER 4, 2024

We’ll explain what these approaches are, what equipment you’ll need, and why it’s important to understand them for safer flight. Key Takeaways LPV approaches use satellite guidance for near-ILS precision and lower minimums. VNAV adds automated vertical guidance to approaches, reducing pilot workload during descents.

Approach 52

Approach Descent Weather VOR 52