Plain English Meaning

CAT II is a tighter ILS approach that lets a pilot descend lower and continue in poorer visibility than a standard ILS, but only with special aircraft, training, and runway equipment.

Full Definition

A precision instrument approach and landing classification authorizing operations to a decision height (DH) lower than 200 feet but not lower than 100 feet above the touchdown zone elevation, with a runway visual range (RVR) not less than 1,000 feet (350 meters). CAT II operations require specific aircraft equipment, pilot training and authorization, and a runway with the supporting ground infrastructure (- lighting, RVR equipment, and a CAT II-certified ILS).