Definition
An instrument approach chart title indicating one of multiple Instrument Landing System (ILS) approach procedures to Runway 28 at a given airport. The letter 'Y' is an alphabetical suffix used to distinguish this ILS procedure from other ILS approaches to the same runway (such as ILS Z RWY 28), where each version differs in some operational element — for example, transition routes, minimums, missed approach procedure, or required equipment.
Plain English
This is the name of a specific ILS approach plate for Runway 28. When more than one ILS approach exists to the same runway, each one gets a letter (Y, Z, X, and so on) so pilots can tell them apart and brief the correct one.
Context Anchor
Seen on instrument approach charts, in approach clearances, and when selecting an approach in avionics or flight planning software.
Derivation
The suffix letters start at the end of the alphabet (Z, then Y, then X, working backward) so they are not confused with the runway designator letters L, C, and R (Left, Center, Right). This convention keeps the suffix visually distinct from the runway side identifier.
Why Pilots Care
Selecting the correct lettered procedure ensures the pilot loads the proper lateral and vertical path, altitudes, and decision heights into the aircraft systems.
Intuition Check
Do not read Y as a difficulty level or a direction. In this name, Y is only a label that separates this approach from another ILS approach to Runway 28.
Example Sentence 1
Approach cleared us for the ILS Y Runway 28, so we pulled up that specific plate and briefed its minimums and missed approach.