Definition
On an instrument approach chart, the main procedure course is the primary inbound track the pilot is expected to fly toward the runway during the approach. On the plan view it is shown as a heavy, solid black line, distinguishing it from feeder routes, transitions, missed approach tracks, and other secondary courses depicted on the same chart.
Plain English
It is the main path you fly inbound to the runway on an instrument approach. On the chart, it is the thick, solid black line that stands out from the other lines around it.
Context Anchor
Seen in the plan view of an instrument approach chart, where the approach path is drawn from above.
Why Pilots Care
It gives the exact heading to fly so the aircraft stays aligned with the final approach path and reaches the runway safely.
Intuition Check
“Course” here does not mean a class or training program. It means the direction and path the aircraft is meant to fly on the published approach.
Example Sentence 1
After crossing the initial approach fix, the pilot turned inbound to intercept the main procedure course shown as the bold line on the chart.
Example Sentence 2
Brief the main procedure course first so the entire crew knows the inbound heading for the final segment.