Definition
The vertical track an aircraft follows from a higher altitude down toward a lower altitude or runway, defined by a specific angle or gradient relative to the ground. On an instrument approach, the descent path is the vertical guidance an aircraft flies to arrive at the runway threshold at the correct height.
Plain English
The downward sloping line in the sky that an aircraft follows as it comes down from cruise altitude toward the runway.
Context Anchor
Seen during instrument approach planning and flying, especially when using equipment that gives both sideways course guidance and up-or-down guidance.
Derivation
Descent comes from a Latin word meaning “to climb down.” Path means a way or track to follow. Together, the words point to a route downward, not a random loss of altitude.
Why Pilots Care
Following the published descent path keeps the aircraft safely above terrain and obstacles while establishing a stable approach to the runway.
Analogy
Think of it like a ramp built in the sky leading down to the runway. The aircraft slides down that ramp at a steady angle rather than diving steeply or descending in steps.
Intuition Check
Do not read descent path as simply “going down.” In this context, it means a planned vertical route the aircraft is expected to follow.
Example Sentence 1
The crew captured the descent path five miles from the runway and followed it down to landing.
Example Sentence 2
Deviating above or below the descent path during an LNAV/VNAV approach can trigger a terrain warning or missed approach.