Instrument Landing System (ILS) Proficiency Exam

ADVANCE FLYING ACADEMY

Instrument Landing System (ILS) Proficiency Exam

The Instrument Landing System (ILS) Proficiency Exam tests a pilot’s knowledge and practical understanding of the ILS approach, which is a precision approach system used to guide aircraft safely to the runway under low visibility conditions. This exam evaluates knowledge of equipment, procedures, and contingencies during ILS operations.

Key Topics to Study

1. ILS Components

Localizer (LOC): Provides lateral guidance to the runway centerline.
Glide Slope (GS): Provides vertical guidance to the runway threshold.
Marker Beacons: (Outer, Middle, and Inner Markers) Indicate distance to the runway.
DME (Distance Measuring Equipment): May supplement marker beacons in some systems.
Approach Lighting Systems (ALS): Visual aids for transitioning to a landing.

2. Categories of ILS

CAT I: Decision Height (DH) of 200 feet, Runway Visual Range (RVR) of 550m (1,800 ft).
CAT II: DH of 100 feet, RVR of 300m (1,200 ft).
CAT III:
- IIIa: No DH, RVR of 200m (700 ft).
- IIIb: No DH, RVR of 75m (250 ft).
- IIIc: No DH, no RVR limits (autoland or equivalent required).

3. ILS Approach Procedure

Understanding ILS charts and briefing procedures.
Intercepting and tracking the localizer and glide slope.
Establishing and maintaining the proper approach speed and configuration.
Importance of stable approach criteria.

4. ILS Errors and Limitations

Signal Interference: Terrain, buildings, or other aircraft.
False Glide Slope: Above the actual glide slope (e.g., at 9° instead of 3°).
Autopilot Dependence: Ensuring redundancy in case of failure.
Backcourse Approach: Understanding inverted LOC signals.

5. ILS Equipment and Cockpit Displays

Proper use of NAV radios, flight director, and autopilot systems.
Monitoring course deviation indicators (CDI) and glide slope indicators.
Transitioning from instruments to visual references.

6. Missed Approach and Go-Around

Executing missed approach procedures if below minima or unstable.
Handling missed approach point (MAP) identification on charts.

7. Contingency Procedures

Failure of glide slope or localizer.
Transitioning to alternate approaches (e.g., non-precision).
Use of GPS or RNAV as backup.

8. Regulations and Minima

Required equipment for ILS approaches.
Pilot qualifications for CAT II/III operations.
Understanding DH, MDA, and RVR regulations.

Sample Exam Questions

ILS Theory
- Explain how the localizer provides lateral guidance.
- What is the glide slope angle for a standard ILS approach, and why is it important?
ILS Categories
- What are the differences between CAT I, CAT II, and CAT III operations?
- What additional aircraft equipment is required for CAT III approaches?
Approach Execution
- During an ILS approach, how do you intercept and maintain the localizer course?
- What actions should you take if the glide slope signal is lost during an approach?
Contingency Procedures
- If you encounter signal interference on the localizer, what are your options?
- Describe the missed approach procedure for a failed ILS approach.
ILS Charts
- On an ILS approach chart, what do the DH and MAP signify?
- How do you calculate a descent rate to maintain the glide slope?
Operational Scenarios
- During an ILS CAT II approach, the RVR drops below minima after passing the outer marker. What is your decision?
- You notice the CDI is oscillating during the approach. How do you handle it?

Study Tips

Review ILS Approach Charts
- Practice interpreting Jeppesen or FAA ILS charts, focusing on minima, frequencies, and missed approach procedures.
Simulate Approaches
- Use a simulator to practice intercepting and flying an ILS approach under various conditions, including autopilot and manual operations.
Learn Contingency Procedures
- Familiarize yourself with actions to take for signal failures or missed approaches.
Understand Aircraft Systems
- Study how your specific aircraft interfaces with the ILS system, including autopilot modes.
Review Regulations
- Memorize the visibility and DH/RVR minima for each ILS category and understand certification requirements.

If you'd like, I can provide example scenarios, additional practice questions, or assist with specific aspects of ILS operations. Let me know how I can help!

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