Definition
The point on a precision instrument approach where the final descent to the runway begins. It is the location at which the aircraft is established on the glide slope and the published descent path to the runway threshold commences.
Plain English
On a precision approach, this is the spot where the aircraft starts its final, glide-slope-guided descent toward the runway.
Context Anchor
Seen on instrument approach procedures, especially approaches where the aircraft follows a published vertical path to the runway.
Derivation
Precise' here refers to a precision approach -- one that provides electronic vertical guidance (a glide slope), not just lateral guidance. The fix is 'precise' because descent begins at the exact point where the glide slope is intercepted at the published altitude.
Why Pilots Care
It signals the start of the segment requiring precise navigation to maintain the correct descent path for a safe landing.
Intuition Check
“Precise” does not mean the pilot is simply flying more carefully. Here it means the procedure identifies an exact point for beginning the final descent.
Example Sentence 1
Crossing the precise final approach fix, the pilot began the final descent down the glide slope toward the runway.
Example Sentence 2
The aircraft was established on the localizer before reaching the Precise Final Approach Fix.