Definition
A series of predetermined maneuvers, published by the FAA, that guide an aircraft from the en route environment down to a point where the pilot can either land visually or execute a missed approach. Each procedure specifies routes, altitudes, courses, and minimums, and is flown using cockpit instruments rather than outside visual references.
Plain English
A published step-by-step path that lets a pilot fly down through clouds or low visibility to a runway using only instruments, with built-in altitudes and headings to keep the aircraft safely clear of terrain and obstacles.
Context Anchor
Pilots see IAPs on instrument approach charts, in instrument flight planning, and in clearances from air traffic controllers.
Why Pilots Care
Following the correct IAP allows a safe landing in low visibility or at night; missing or misflying one can result in a missed approach or controlled flight into terrain.
Intuition Check
An IAP is not just any approach to land. It is a specific published procedure with defined paths, altitudes, and backup instructions if the landing cannot be completed.
Example Sentence 1
ATC cleared us for the ILS Runway 27 IAP, so I briefed the chart and set up the navigation radios for the approach.
Example Sentence 2
ATC issued a clearance for the ILS IAP and the crew began configuring the aircraft.