From the Author:

This guide is compiled from a collection of notes and handouts assembled for my past instrument, helicopter students. Learning to fly helicopters can, at times, be challenging enough. The pursuit of the instrument helicopter rating adds a new level of knowledge and hopefully, a new level of understanding about many flight dynamics.

It will provide the reader with a basic overview of the Instrument Landing System and its various associated components. The material has been written for you, the helicopter pilot, by a helicopter pilot and instructor. Sadly, the majority of training guides, manuals and texts are normally geared for our fixed wing brethren. Finally, a guide just for you, the helicopter pilot!

Topics Include:

• The Instrument Landing System (ILS) explained.
• ILS components and approach types.
• The four ILS components Localizer, glide slope, marker beacons, approach lighting systems.
• Alternative ILS components; compass locators.
• ILS errors to consider.
• Flying the ILS approach on the ground, in the air.
• The approach plate.
• Briefing strip, plan view, profile view, minima section, airport view, TIMTS procedures checklist.
• Final phases of the ILS approach.
• Final approach fix, course reversal procedure, procedure turn, GPS modes, going “missed”.