Definition
A ground-based radar system used by air traffic controllers to guide a pilot down a final approach to a runway by providing precise position information in three dimensions: azimuth (left/right of the runway centerline), elevation (above or below the glidepath), and range (distance from touchdown). The controller issues continuous verbal instructions during the approach so the pilot can fly an accurate path to the runway without using onboard precision approach equipment.
Plain English
A radar on the ground that tracks an aircraft on final approach and lets a controller talk the pilot down to the runway, telling them whether they are left or right, high or low, and how far out they are.
Context Anchor
Seen in instrument approach procedures, especially at airports or facilities that provide radar-guided approaches.
Derivation
Precision means measured with fine accuracy. Approach refers to the final descent toward the runway. Radar comes from radio detection and ranging, a system that uses radio waves to locate objects. Together: a radar accurate enough to guide a precise landing approach.
Why Pilots Care
It allows precision approaches at airports without an ILS or other electronic landing aids, improving access and safety in low-visibility conditions.
Intuition Check
PAR is not radar equipment the pilot uses in the cockpit. It is ground radar used by a controller to give the pilot real-time approach corrections by radio.
Example Sentence 1
With the weather below minimums for any onboard approach, the pilot requested a PAR to the military field nearby.
Example Sentence 2
Pilots training for instrument ratings practice PAR approaches to build confidence in controller-guided landings.