Definition
A helicopter-specific instrument approach procedure that uses a localizer for lateral guidance and distance measuring equipment (DME) for along-track distance, leading to runway 25 Left. The 'Copter' prefix means the chart is designed for helicopter operations, with criteria, minimums, and speeds tailored to helicopters rather than fixed-wing aircraft.
Plain English
It is the name of an instrument approach chart for helicopters, flown using a localizer signal for left/right guidance and DME for distance, ending at the left runway numbered 25.
Context Anchor
Seen as the title at the top of an instrument approach procedure chart.
Derivation
Copter' is the standard FAA shorthand for helicopter on charts. 'LOC' is short for localizer (the lateral guidance signal). 'DME' is distance measuring equipment. '25L' identifies the runway by its magnetic heading (roughly 250°) and which of two parallel runways (Left).
Why Pilots Care
Helicopter pilots use this procedure to fly a precise, instrument-guided path to a specific runway when weather prevents visual approaches.
Intuition Check
Do not read COPTER as just a casual nickname on the chart; here it means the procedure is intended for helicopters. 25L is not a page number or a turn instruction; it identifies Runway 25 Left.
Example Sentence 1
Approach cleared us for the Copter LOC/DME 25L into the heliport-adjacent runway.
Example Sentence 2
ATC cleared the helicopter for the COPTER LOC/DME 25L arrival to runway 25 Left.