Definition
The title of an instrument approach procedure that uses the back course signal of a localizer transmitter to provide lateral guidance to Runway 25R. The localizer antenna is located at the far end of the opposite runway (07L), and its back course radiates in the reverse direction to support an approach to 25R. This is a non-precision approach, providing lateral guidance only with no electronic glideslope.
Plain English
This is the name of a specific approach chart. It tells you the approach uses the back side of a localizer signal to line you up with Runway 25 Right, and that there is no electronic glide path — only side-to-side guidance.
Context Anchor
Seen as the title of an instrument approach chart and in training material about localizer back course approaches.
Derivation
LOC is short for localizer, from the idea of helping the pilot locate and stay aligned with a runway course. BC means back course, the opposite side of the localizer signal from the front course. RWY means runway. 25R means the runway points roughly toward 250 degrees magnetic, and R means it is the right runway when there are parallel runways.
Why Pilots Care
Understanding the back course prevents reversed needle sensing and ensures correct course interception and descent on non-precision approaches.
Grounding Statement
The term is an approach-chart title: it tells you, at a glance, that you are using a localizer back course to approach Runway 25 Right.
Intuition Check
Do not read “back course” as meaning you fly backward or away from the runway. It means you are using the back side of the localizer signal. Do not read “R” as a right turn. It means the right-hand runway of a parallel runway pair.
Example Sentence 1
ATC cleared us for the LOC BC RWY 25R approach, so I tuned the localizer frequency and set 252 in the course selector to keep the needle sensing correct.
Example Sentence 2
ATC cleared the aircraft for the LOC BC RWY 25R, requiring careful heading selection to avoid false course indications.