Definition
The published title of a non-precision instrument approach procedure that uses a Simplified Directional Facility to provide lateral guidance to Runway 36. An SDF approach gives course guidance only (no glide slope), and the SDF course may be offset from the runway centerline by up to 3 degrees and have a course width of either 6 or 12 degrees, depending on the installation.
Plain English
It is the name of an instrument approach to Runway 36 that uses a simpler, less precise version of a localizer to keep you lined up left and right as you descend toward the runway. It does not provide up-and-down guidance, only side-to-side.
Context Anchor
Seen as the title of an instrument approach chart, such as an approach plate labeled “SDF RWY 36.”
Derivation
The naming convention follows standard FAA approach chart titling: the type of navigation aid (SDF) followed by the runway it serves (RWY 36, meaning a runway aligned roughly 360 degrees magnetic, or north).
Why Pilots Care
Provides a usable lateral guidance option to runways lacking a full ILS installation.
Intuition Check
“Simplified” does not mean casual or optional; it means the facility provides a simpler form of course guidance. “RWY 36” does not mean there are 36 runways; it means the runway direction is approximately 360 degrees magnetic.
Example Sentence 1
Cleared for the SDF RWY 36 approach, the pilot tuned the SDF frequency and tracked the course inbound while stepping down to the minimum descent altitude.
Example Sentence 2
Cleared for the SDF RWY 36, the aircraft intercepted the final approach course at 2000 feet.