Definition
The point during an instrument approach at which the aircraft transitions from level flight to descending along the published or radar-provided glidepath. On a precision approach, this is where the aircraft meets the descending guidance signal (such as the ILS glideslope or PAR glidepath) and begins its controlled descent toward the runway.
Plain English
The moment the aircraft stops flying level and starts following the descent path down to the runway.
Context Anchor
Seen during instrument approaches, especially radar approaches, when a controller or instrument indication helps the pilot join the proper descent path.
Derivation
Glidepath comes from 'glide' (a smooth descent) and 'path' (the route flown). 'Interception' comes from Latin intercipere, meaning to catch or take hold of along the way. Together, the term describes the moment the aircraft catches the descending path and begins riding it down.
Why Pilots Care
Ensures the aircraft is properly aligned for a stabilized descent without excessive corrections.
Grounding Statement
Picture flying level toward the runway until the planned downhill line reaches your altitude, then beginning the descent on that line.
Intuition Check
Interception does not mean stopping, blocking, or catching another aircraft here. It means meeting the glidepath and joining it.
Example Sentence 1
The pilot maintained the assigned altitude until glidepath interception, then began a steady descent toward the runway.
Example Sentence 2
Timely glidepath interception allows for a smooth transition to the precision approach.