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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/ifr-glideslope-angle

What glide path angle above horizontal is a typical ILS glideslope adjusted to?

3 degrees above horizontal.

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  1. 2 degrees
  2. 5 degrees
  3. 3 degrees ✔

Why: ILS glide paths are normally set to a 3 degree angle. That is a gentle, stable descent that works for most airplanes and matches the descent angle of many other approaches.

Huh, didn't know that: The glideslope beam is about 1.4 degrees wide vertically.

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Why did the pilot love his glideslope? It had a great sense of direction.
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References

Answer: 3 degrees. ILS glide paths are normally set to a 3 degree angle. That is a gentle, stable descent that works for most airplanes and matches the descent angle of many other approaches.

  1. FAA Aeronautical Information Manual 1-1 Navigation Aids www.faa.gov/air_traffic/publications/atpubs/aim_html/chap1_section_1.html
    The glide path projection angle is normally adjusted to 3 degrees above horizontal
    Checked 2026-10-10.

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FlyingAt the runway threshold, how wide is a localizer course from full-scale left to full-scale right?FlyingThe authorized DA/DH or MDA for an approach is which of the available values?FlyingBelow DA, which condition must you meet to continue to land?

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