Which types of approaches are used in IFR operations?

In IFR (Instrument Flight Rules) operations, approaches are primarily categorized into precision approaches and non-precision approaches. Precision approaches are those that provide lateral and vertical guidance to pilots, typically enabled by advanced navigational aids such as the Instrument Landing System (ILS). These approaches are designed to bring aircraft to a lower decision height for landing, allowing for a higher level of safety in low visibility conditions.

On the other hand, non-precision approaches do not provide vertical guidance and instead rely on lateral navigation aids, such as VOR (VHF Omnidirectional Range) or NDB (Non-Directional Beacon) approaches. During non-precision approaches, pilots use minimum descent altitudes and visual cues for landing without the benefit of automated guidance systems.

This distinction between precision and non-precision approaches is crucial for pilots, as it directly impacts the procedures they follow and the decision-making processes involved in landing safely, especially under varying weather conditions.

The other choices provided utilize terms that do not precisely capture the distinctions made in IFR operations regarding approaches. For example, visual approaches rely on visual references and are not considered part of IFR regulations specifically. Approaches described as standard and advanced do not align with the formal definitions used by aviation authorities, and the terms radio and radar