The standard precision approach using the Instrument Landing System (ILS). Category I is the most common ILS operation worldwide and defines the minimum weather conditions under which a pilot may descend using instruments before requiring visual contact with the runway.
Key characteristics:
- Decision Height (DH): At or above 200 feet above the runway threshold.
- Runway Visual Range (RVR): At least 550–800 meters (depending on regulations).
- Equipment: Requires a functioning ILS (LOC + GS), approach lighting, and basic runway lighting.
- Aircraft: Any ILS-equipped aircraft can fly a CAT I approach; advanced autoland or dual autopilot systems are not required.
- Operations: Pilots must acquire sufficient visual reference (runway lights, markings, or environment) by the decision height to continue the landing.
Application in DCS World
- DCS supports CAT I-style ILS approaches: pilots intercept localizer and glideslope, descend to ~200 ft DH, and transition visually to land. This closely mirrors real-world CAT I operations.
- DCS does not simulate true RVR values, low-visibility lighting systems, or approach ban rules. Weather is adjustable, but regulatory limits (e.g., CAT I vs CAT II) are not enforced.
Cadets should practice stabilized ILS approaches to DH (~200 ft), confirming runway environment visually before landing. This builds the foundation for precision approaches, as DCS effectively models CAT I only.