How far out is the Localizer effective for navigation?

The Localizer is a crucial component of an Instrument Landing System (ILS) used to provide lateral guidance to aircraft approaching a runway. Its range of effectiveness, specifically for navigation purposes, extends up to 18 nautical miles from the transmitter on the ground. This range allows pilots to accurately align their aircraft with the runway centerline during the final approach phase of landing, ensuring safe and precise navigation while descending towards the runway.

The specification of 18 nautical miles comes from standards established in aviation regulations, ensuring that pilots have adequate guidance as they approach an airport. The performance of the Localizer within this range is designed to maintain reliability and accuracy, which is vital during low visibility conditions or when instrument flight rules (IFR) are in effect. Thus, the correct understanding of the Localizer's effective range is essential for pilots operating under these critical conditions.