What characterizes a Precision Approach?

A Precision Approach is characterized by the presence of a glideslope or glidepath. This means that the approach utilizes both lateral and vertical guidance to ensure that an aircraft descends correctly towards the runway. The inclusion of a glideslope allows pilots to maintain the appropriate angle of descent, which is essential in achieving a safe landing. Precision approaches, such as those using the Instrument Landing System (ILS), provide detailed information that helps pilots to land accurately even in poor visibility conditions.

The other options do not correctly reflect the characteristics of a Precision Approach. For instance, an approach that relies solely on visual references does not incorporate the necessary vertical guidance and therefore would not be classified as a precision approach. Approaches without vertical guidance, such as non-precision approaches, either provide only lateral guidance or no instrument guidance at all. Finally, approaches requiring only basic instrument training would lack the complexity and specificity afforded by precision approaches which require more advanced navigational skills due to their reliance on specific systems and guidance.