Definition
The published inbound track a pilot flies to align the aircraft with the runway during an instrument approach. It is the specific magnetic course shown on the approach chart that the aircraft tracks toward the runway, typically defined by a navigation aid, a final approach fix, or an RNAV path.
Plain English
The exact direction you fly to line up with the runway on an instrument approach. It's the course printed on the approach chart that takes you straight in toward landing.
Context Anchor
Seen on instrument approach charts and approach diagrams, including timed-approach examples from a holding fix.
Derivation
‘Approach’ comes from Latin appropiare, meaning ‘to draw near.’ ‘Course’ comes from Latin cursus, meaning ‘a running’ or ‘a path.’ Together, the approach course is the path you fly to draw near the runway.
Why Pilots Care
Ensures the aircraft is properly aligned for landing, which is critical for safety in low visibility.
Intuition Check
Do not read “course” here as a general training class or route plan. In APP CRS, it means a specific direction to fly, written as a degree value.
Example Sentence 1
Set the APP CRS to 142 degrees and arm the approach mode before crossing the final approach fix.
Example Sentence 2
Maintaining the APP CRS is essential while flying the timed segment of the approach.