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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/ifr-cat-i-hat-200

The height above touchdown for a normal CAT I precision approach is about how high?

About 200 feet above touchdown zone elevation.

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  1. 200 feet above touchdown zone elevation ✔
  2. 100 feet above touchdown zone elevation
  3. 400 feet above touchdown zone elevation

Why: A CAT I ILS normally has a decision height of 200 feet above the touchdown zone elevation. A published HAT of 250 or more may come from signal coverage or from obstacles penetrating the approach surfaces.

Huh, didn't know that: GBAS (LAAS) can provide ILS look-alike guidance as low as 200 feet above touchdown.

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References

Answer: 200 feet above touchdown zone elevation. A CAT I ILS normally has a decision height of 200 feet above the touchdown zone elevation. A published HAT of 250 or more may come from signal coverage or from obstacles penetrating the approach surfaces.

  1. FAA Instrument Procedures Handbook, Chapter 4 www.faa.gov/sites/faa.gov/files/regulations_policies/handbooks_manuals/aviation/instrument_procedures_handbook/FAA-H-8083-16B_Chapter_4.pdf
    The height above touchdown (HAT) for a CAT I precision approach is normally 200 feet above touchdown zone elevation (TDZE).
    Checked 2026-10-10.

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FlyingA precision approach alternate with no special alternate minimums needs what forecast ceiling and visibility at your ETA?FlyingUsing only the approach lights as your visual reference, how low may you descend below DA?FlyingThe authorized DA/DH or MDA for an approach is which of the available values?

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