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

Air Facts

MAY 7, 2025

The equipment was often not much modernized from the military days so the pilots likely hoped for good weather as they filed their flight plans. The airport was central to the region and was well equipped as an alternate with long runways and an ATC control tower staffed with trained controllers from 6 am until midnight every day.

Weight-Shift-Control 52

Weight-Shift-Control VOR Runway Distance Measuring Equipment 52

Pilot Institute

SEPTEMBER 24, 2024

The ILS approach has revolutionized aviation and the types of weather we can fly in. You might have heard pilots talking about the Instrument Landing Systems (ILS). The ILS is a type of approach pilots use to land. It consists of lights that start at the landing threshold and extend into the approach area.

Knot 52

Knot Approach Runway Distance Measuring Equipment 52