Plain English Meaning
A step-by-step set of flight instructions, drawn on a chart, that lets a pilot fly down through clouds or low visibility and line up with a runway safely, even when they cannot see outside.
Full Definition
A series of predetermined maneuvers, published by the FAA, that allows a pilot to descend safely from en route altitude down to a point near the runway using only cockpit instruments for guidance. The procedure specifies headings, altitudes, navigation aids, minimum descent altitudes or decision heights, and the missed approach instructions to follow if the runway is not seen at the prescribed point.