Definition

1. Noun:
   • The final path followed by an aircraft as it is landing: The specific, descending flight trajectory an aircraft follows to align with and land on a runway.

Usage

• This term is used specifically in the context of aviation and air traffic control to describe the last segment of a flight.
• It is a technical compound noun. When using it, treat "approach path" as a single conceptual unit.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The pilot adjusted the aircraft's speed to maintain a stable approach path.
  • Air traffic control cleared the plane to join the final approach path for runway 27L.
  • A sudden crosswind can make it difficult to stay on the correct approach path.

Advanced Usage

• "To be on/off the approach path": To be correctly following or deviating from the designated landing trajectory.
  • The controller warned the aircraft that it was drifting below the glideslope and off the approach path.

Variants and Related Words

• Approach (noun): In aviation, this can refer more broadly to the phase of flight preceding landing, which includes the final approach path.
  • The aircraft began its approach to the airport.
• Glide path / Glideslope (noun): The precise, angled descent path, often defined by electronic guidance, which is a key component of the final approach path.
  • The pilot followed the glide path indicated by the Instrument Landing System (ILS).
• Final approach (noun): A common term that is largely synonymous with "approach path," describing the last straight segment before landing.

Synonyms

• Final approach course: A very close synonym emphasizing the directional track.
• Landing path: A less technical but understandable synonym.

Related Phrases

• To intercept the approach path: To maneuver the aircraft to enter the correct final descent trajectory.
  • The aircraft was vectored by ATC to intercept the approach path five miles from the runway.
• To fly the approach path: To pilot the aircraft along the designated landing trajectory.
  • The trainee pilot practiced how to fly the approach path in the simulator.

Noun

1. the final path followed by an aircraft as it is landing