Precision Final Approaches
Jet and turboprop aircraft pass through the 6-mile DME fix at 1,200 feet at 150 knots in
landing configuration and commence slowing to final-approach speed. Unless otherwise
directed by the final controller, the altitude of 1,200 feet is maintained at approach
speed until the glide path is intercepted (approximately 3 miles dependent upon the
glide slope angle).
Helicopters pass through the 3-mile DME fix at 500 feet in landing configuration. They
maintain 500 feet until interception of the glide path or until otherwise directed by the
final controller.
PALS Modes of Aircraft Control
PALS approaches differ by the type of control given (automatic or manual) and how the
information is relayed (display or voice). Table 11-14 lists the different modes of PALS
approaches and their type of control.
PALS Mode
Type of Control
Mode I
Fully automatic approach to touchdown
Mode IA
Automatic approach to 1/2 mile
Mode II
Manual approach with PALS glide slope and lineup error
information provided to the pilot by cockpit display
Mode IIT
Training approach using needles instrument presentation
(Mode II) as well as Mode III information
Mode III
Manual approach with information provided by the final
controller
Table 11-14 -- PALS modes of aircraft control
Mode I Approach
A Mode I approach is a fully automatic approach to touchdown. At the 6-mile DME fix,
the pilot should engage the Approach Power Compensator (APC) and Automatic Flight
Control System (AFCS). Normally at a range of 4 and 8 miles from the ship, the pilot
receives via data link, a LANDING CHECK discrete signal to indicate positive data link
communications between the aircraft and the ship.
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