What characterizes a precision approach?

A precision approach is characterized by the provision of both lateral and vertical guidance to the pilot as they descend towards the runway. This dual guidance is essential for maintaining the correct approach path, allowing pilots to follow a specific glide slope down to the runway threshold. The most common system used for precision approaches is the Instrument Landing System (ILS), which provides detailed information for both lateral alignment and descent angle.

Having both lateral and vertical guidance is crucial for enhancing safety and accuracy during landing, especially in low-visibility conditions. This type of approach allows pilots to rely on instrument readings rather than visual cues, which can be critical when weather conditions deteriorate.

In contrast, other options describe approaches that lack either the necessary guidance or require visual verification, which do not meet the criteria for a precision approach. Choices that involve only lateral guidance, the need for visual confirmation, or adherence to visual flight rules are indicative of different types of approaches such as non-precision or visual approaches, which do not provide the same level of safety and precision as those classified as precision approaches.