Plain English Meaning

An approach is the step-by-step path a pilot follows on instruments to safely descend from cruise altitude toward the runway, often in cloud or low visibility, until the runway is in sight and a landing can be made.

Full Definition

In instrument flying, approaches are the published procedures a pilot flies to transition an aircraft from the en route phase of flight down to a position from which a landing can be made, using instrument references rather than visual cues. Each approach specifies a defined ground track, altitudes, , points, and that must be met .