Which system is used to provide lateral and vertical guidance for precision approaches?

The correct answer is the Instrument Landing System (ILS), which is specifically designed to provide both lateral and vertical guidance during precision approaches. The ILS utilizes a combination of two primary components: the localizer and the glideslope.

The localizer provides lateral guidance to help pilots align the aircraft with the centerline of the runway, ensuring they are flying on the correct horizontal path during the approach. The glideslope then offers vertical guidance, directing the aircraft to maintain the correct descent angle as it approaches the runway. This precise guidance allows pilots to execute landings even in low visibility conditions, making ILS a critical system for safe and effective flight operations.

In contrast, VOR (VHF Omnidirectional Range) is used for navigation by providing azimuth information but does not offer glideslope information. ADF (Automatic Direction Finder) is used to determine the direction to a radio beacon but provides no lateral or vertical approach guidance. DME (Distance Measuring Equipment) provides distance information related to the aircraft's position relative to a ground station but does not guide the aircraft during the approach in terms of lateral or vertical alignment. Thus, the ILS stands distinguished as the only system capable of delivering the comprehensive precision approach guidance needed in various weather