ILS

An ILS is a ground-based radio navigation system that provides precise lateral (localizer) and vertical (glideslope) guidance for landing in low visibility conditions. It is the standard precision approach at commercial airports and many busy general aviation fields.

Flying ILS approaches is a core skill for the IFR rating. Most flight schools with an autopilot-equipped aircraft can demonstrate fully coupled ILS approaches, which is valuable training for real-world instrument operations. The aircraft needs a VOR/ILS receiver to fly them.