Which type of approach requires the highest level of navigational accuracy?

Precision approaches require the highest level of navigational accuracy due to their reliance on advanced technology and instruments that provide highly accurate lateral and vertical guidance to the pilot during the approach and landing phases.

In a precision approach, such as those utilizing the Instrument Landing System (ILS), pilots receive detailed information about their position relative to the runway, enabling them to make very precise maneuvers to align with the runway. This level of accuracy is crucial when visibility is poor or during challenging weather conditions. The use of precise course and glide slope information allows pilots to perform approaches with minimums as low as 200 feet above the ground and a visibility of half a mile or less, depending on specific aircraft and airport regulations.

In contrast, other types of approaches, such as visual or non-precision approaches, do not provide the same level of guidance. Visual approaches depend heavily on the pilot’s ability to see the airport and navigate visually, while non-precision approaches rely on less sophisticated navigation aids that do not offer vertical guidance, meaning they are typically less accurate and have higher minimum visibility requirements. Similarly, STARs assist in managing traffic around busy airports but do not require the same stringent accuracy as precision approaches.