Definition
A data field within an avionics database record that holds the unique identifier assigned to a specific instrument approach procedure, allowing the navigation system to recognize, load, and display that approach when the pilot selects it.
Plain English
It is the spot in the avionics database where the name or code of an instrument approach is stored, so the system knows which approach you are asking for when you pick one from the menu.
Context Anchor
Seen when selecting, loading, or checking an instrument approach in installed avionics or a navigation database.
Derivation
‘Identifier’ comes from Latin ‘idem’ meaning ‘the same,’ used here in the sense of a label that uniquely names one thing among many. ‘Field’ in computing means a single labeled space for one piece of information inside a larger record. Together: the labeled slot that holds the approach’s unique name.
Why Pilots Care
It confirms the correct approach procedure has been selected, reducing the risk of flying the wrong approach.
Analogy
Think of it like the name line on a file folder. The folder may contain many details, but the label tells you which file you are holding.
Intuition Check
Do not read “field” here as an airport or landing area. In this context, it means a specific place where identifying information is displayed or stored.
Example Sentence 1
When the manufacturer builds the navigation database, each instrument approach has its own approach identifier field that the avionics use to find the procedure when the pilot selects it.
Example Sentence 2
During the briefing, the approach identifier field displayed ILS RWY 09 as the active procedure.