Plain English Meaning

CAT I is the basic level of precision instrument approach. It lets a pilot descend on instruments down to 200 feet above the runway, where they must see the runway environment to continue and land. If they can't see it, they must go around.

Full Definition

A precision instrument approach and landing classification with a decision height not lower than 200 feet above the touchdown zone elevation, and either a visibility not less than 1/2 statute mile or a runway visual range not less than 1,800 feet. CAT I is the most commonly available precision approach category and is flown by pilots a without .