Definition
PRM Radar is a high-update-rate surveillance radar system used by ATC to monitor simultaneous independent approaches to closely spaced parallel runways. It provides controllers with rapid position updates and high-resolution display of aircraft, allowing safe separation of two aircraft flying parallel approaches when the runway centerlines are too close for standard parallel approach procedures.
Plain English
A special, very fast radar that lets controllers safely run two airplanes down to two parallel runways at the same time when those runways are close together. It updates much more often than normal radar so controllers can react quickly if one aircraft drifts toward the other.
Context Anchor
Seen in instrument approach procedures and discussions of simultaneous approaches to closely spaced parallel runways.
Derivation
Precision Runway Monitor — 'precision' because the radar's faster update rate and finer resolution give controllers a more exact, real-time picture of each aircraft's position on parallel approach paths.
Why Pilots Care
Allows airports to conduct simultaneous landings on parallel runways, increasing capacity while preserving required safety separation.
Intuition Check
PRM Radar is not radar equipment in your airplane. It is a ground-based air traffic control system used by controllers to monitor aircraft on certain parallel approaches.
Example Sentence 1
The approach into Minneapolis was a PRM Radar approach, so we briefed the breakout procedure carefully and tuned the monitor frequency before the final approach fix.
Example Sentence 2
The pilot received a briefing on PRM Radar monitoring before being cleared for the simultaneous ILS approach.