PilotEdge Forums

I've been going through the IFR ratings and I started using ILS.

I was wondering, if you fly VFR, can you call the tower and request an ILS approach even if your not IFR?

Just curious, as it just seems wise to use ILS as it adds some addition safety to landings since you have additional glide path data.

Brett

We can vector you for a practice approach, yes. Keep in mind that you will not be separated from IFR traffic when conducting the approach, provided you are not in Bravo or Charlie airspace.

There are actually two forms of approaches conducting under VFR.

If the controller issues an approach clearance and simply adds "maintain VFR" to the list of instructions, then he will actually provide separation from other IFR aircraft (although you're still legally obliged to maintain VFR conditions)

If no separation services will be provided, the phraseology will be "practice approach approved, no separation services provided," in which case you're truly on your own.

My understanding is that the level of service in each area is usually dictated by SOPs.

Yep spot on Keith... also only 500 ft vertical between practice approach VFR aircraft and IFR as long as it's not a heavy/b753

And Brett you'll ask for that on ground/clearance or inbound with approach control, not tower.