Airports With Asr Par Approaches: A Comprehensive Guide

Precision Approach Radar (PAR) and Airport Surveillance Radar (ASR) approaches are terminal procedures that can be used by aircraft on request. PAR approaches are generally provided at military airports, while ASR approaches are available at civilian or joint-use airports. PAR approaches rely solely on radio communication and do not require additional navigation instruments. ASR approaches provide azimuth information and suggested altitudes from the controller. While PAR approaches are less common at civilian airports, some military fields may allow civilian aircraft to fly these approaches on a case-by-case basis.

Military airports with PAR approaches

PAR stands for Precision Approach Radar. It is a ground-controlled approach (GCA) that does not require any onboard equipment. The controller provides a continuous talk-down through voice communications, giving constant updates on the aircraft's position relative to the extended runway centreline, azimuth, and glideslope information. The controller sees a 3D representation of the aircraft's position, composed of two pictures: a planar view and a vertical cut view.

PAR approaches are beneficial because they do not require any onboard equipment. However, as ILS is now standard aircraft equipment, this is less of an advantage. Additionally, the use of PAR results in increased controller workload and frequency congestion. This means that when engaged in providing a precision approach, the controller should not be responsible for any other duties. This results in a low ATS unit capacity, and consequently, the use of PAR in civil aviation has been constantly diminishing.

PAR approaches are detailed in the U.S. Terminal Procedures Publication, where the locations of PAR approaches can be found in Section N.

Civilian airports with ASR approaches

Airport Surveillance Radar (ASR) is a non-precision approach where Air Traffic Control (ATC) provides lateral guidance to pilots using radar to monitor their position. ATC gives a series of headings and corrections to align the aircraft's final approach with the runway's extended centre line. ASR approaches are available at a few civilian airports, and even more military/joint-use fields.

ASR approaches are vital during equipment failures and emergencies when weather conditions do not allow a visual approach. They are also beneficial due to their low equipment requirements. Pilots only need a 2-way radio to communicate with ATC and functioning flight instruments.

In the US, ASR approaches can be found in the Terminal Procedures Publication, specifically in Section N, the "government charts". For example, Key West International Airport (KEYW) in Florida offers ASR approaches, and the publication includes the MDA and visibility for each runway. Outside of the US, ASR approaches may be called Surveillance Radar Approach (SRA) or Surveillance Radar Element (SRE).

Precision Approach Radar (PAR) is another type of radar approach available to pilots. PAR approaches are more common at military airports, but some civilian airports offer them as well. PAR approaches are beneficial because they allow pilots to execute a no-gyro procedure. ATC monitors the aircraft's position and issues specific heading and altitude information throughout the entire approach.

Finding PAR and ASR approach minimums

Precision Approach Radar (PAR) and Airport Surveillance Radar (ASR) approaches are categorised as terminal procedures. They are grouped with other terminal approach procedures in ForeFlight Mobile.

PAR approaches are provided at military airports and some civilian airports. They can be found in Section N of the U.S. Terminal Procedures Publication. Military fields might allow civilian aircraft to fly these approaches (without landing) on a work-permitting basis. PAR approaches can exclude glideslope information, making them similar to ASR approaches.

ASR approaches are non-precision approaches that provide lateral course guidance (azimuth) only, with no glide slope. The lack of vertical guidance results in higher approach minimums.

To find PAR and ASR approach minimums, follow these steps:

• Go to the Airports view.
• Tap Procedures.
• Select Approach.
• Tap the terminal procedure listed as RADAR MINIMUMS for information about applicable PAR or ASR approach minimums.

Radar approaches can be given to any aircraft on request when the approach control and airport have radar approach capabilities. They might be offered by ATC to pilots in distress or to expedite traffic. However, ASR might not be approved unless there is an ATC operational requirement, or in an unusual or emergency situation.

PAR and ASR minimums are published on separate pages in the FAA Terminal Procedures Publication (TPP).

Radar approach capabilities

PAR approaches provide highly accurate navigational guidance in azimuth and elevation to pilots, allowing them to align with the runway centreline. This information is provided by a dedicated controller through voice communications, ensuring the aircraft stays on course until the pilot can visually complete the approach and landing. PAR approaches are commonly found at military airports, with some available at joint-use airports, and the rest at Naval or Marine Corps Air Stations, Air Force Bases, and Army Airfields.

ASR approaches, on the other hand, do not specify a particular runway and are considered non-precision approaches. ASR provides lateral course guidance (azimuth) without a glide slope, resulting in higher approach minimums. ASR approaches are more common at civilian or joint-use airports and are often used in conjunction with PAR approaches, where the civilian radar approach control provides ASR while the military operates PAR.

Surveillance Approach Radar (SAR) is a critical component of air traffic management, offering enhanced situational awareness and precise approach guidance. SAR provides real-time information on the position, altitude, speed, and heading of aircraft, enabling controllers to manage traffic flow, ensure safe separation, and prevent conflicts. SAR is capable of operating in various weather conditions, including low visibility, making it a valuable tool for all-weather operations.

Radar approaches can be provided to any aircraft upon request and are often offered to aircraft in distress or to expedite traffic. They are particularly useful when weather reports indicate a likelihood of encountering Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) weather conditions during the approach. In such cases, air traffic controllers take immediate action after establishing radar identification and radio communications. Radar service is automatically terminated once the aircraft completes its radar approach, and the pilot is responsible for ensuring compliance with existing weather minima.

PAR and ASR differences

Precision Approach Radar (PAR) and Airport Surveillance Radar (ASR) approaches are terminal procedures that aid pilots in landing aircraft. PAR is a type of Ground Control Approach (GCA) that provides vertical guidance and is considered more precise than ASR. PAR includes glideslope guidance, which helps pilots adjust their descent rate and get back on the path to the runway. The glidepath for the PAR is usually set at 3 degrees, and pilots can make corrections based on calls from the controller. PAR approaches are commonly found at military airports, particularly Naval or Marine Corps Air Stations, as well as some joint-use airports.

On the other hand, ASR is a non-precision approach that provides only lateral course guidance (azimuth) without a glide slope. In other words, ASR provides course guidance, but the pilot must adjust their descent rate to reach the Minimum Descent Altitude (MDA) without the assistance of a glidepath. ASR approaches are more common at civilian or joint-use airports.

In terms of pilot and controller interaction, the process is quite similar for both PAR and ASR approaches. The controller guides the pilot to the runway, providing updates on azimuth and glideslope information for PAR or step-down fixes for ASR. However, the equipment used differs, with PAR employing equipment that offers vertical guidance in addition to lateral guidance. This additional equipment can help pilots achieve lower minimums during descent.

It is worth noting that while PAR approaches are typically associated with military airports, some military fields may allow civilian aircraft to fly PAR approaches without landing, although this practice seems to be decreasing. Additionally, while ASR approaches are more common at civilian airports, they may not be approved unless there is an ATC operational requirement or an unusual or emergency situation.

Both PAR and ASR approaches are valuable tools for pilots and controllers, offering guidance and flexibility during the landing process.

Frequently asked questions