AFOQT Practice Test

What type of guidance do Non-precision Instrument Runways provide?

1. Vertical guidance

2. Horizontal guidance

3. Directional guidance

4. None of the above

The correct answer is: Horizontal guidance

Non-precision Instrument Runways primarily provide horizontal guidance. This type of guidance assists pilots in lateral navigation to align the aircraft with the runway during the approach and landing phases. Non-precision approaches typically rely on visual references and standard navigation aids, such as VOR (VHF Omnidirectional Range), to guide the aircraft without the more sophisticated and intricate vertical guidance systems found in precision approaches. Given the nature of non-precision instruments, they do not include vertical guidance, which is essential for determining altitude during descent and landing. Instead, pilots must maintain altitude awareness and visual references or employ other means of descent management. The focus is thus on maintaining the correct horizontal flight path to ensure a safe approach to landing.