Blog Elements : IFR Focus

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Quiz: Preflight Planning an IFR Flight

October 10, 2025/by IFR Focus Team

There are many details to consider when planning a flight under Instrument Flight Rules. Mix in some inclement weather, and the workload increases exponentially. Answer all these questions correctly and prove you have the keys to unlock a successful IFR flight.

Ask an IFR Expert: LPV vs. ILS—Which Should You Fly in Low Weather?

October 7, 2025/by Eric Radtke

I see more and more approaches labeled LPV in the GPS database, but I’ve heard pilots talk about them as ‘GPS ILS equivalents.’ What exactly is an LPV approach, how is it different from an ILS, and why should I care as an instrument pilot?

Quiz: Preflight Planning an IFR Flight

October 10, 2025/by IFR Focus Team

Ask an IFR Expert: LPV vs. ILS—Which Should You Fly in Low Weather?

October 7, 2025/by Eric Radtke

Full Sized Blog Element (Big Preview Pic)

Quiz: Preflight Planning an IFR Flight

October 10, 2025/by IFR Focus Team

Want to learn more about IFR flight planning? Check out Sporty’s Instrument Rating Course for more in-depth training on this subject.

Ask an IFR Expert: LPV vs. ILS—Which Should You Fly in Low Weather?

October 7, 2025/by Eric Radtke

This is a question that comes up a lot, and it’s a perfect example of how IFR technology gives us more options—but also more decisions to make. Let’s break it down.

LPV vs. ILS—The Basics

An ILS is the classic precision approach, with a localizer for lateral guidance and a glideslope for vertical guidance. It’s reliable, predictable, and widely used around the world.

An LPV (Localizer Performance with Vertical guidance) is a GPS-based approach using WAAS. It gives you precision-like vertical guidance and often lower minimums than older non-WAAS GPS approaches. LPVs can even match or beat ILS minimums in some cases.

Pilot Perspective

Weather Minimums: Always check the published minima. If the LPV offers a lower minimum or better runway alignment than the ILS, it might be the safer option in low weather—but only if you and your aircraft are equipped and comfortable flying it.
Familiarity: In high workload situations, some pilots find the ILS easier to fly simply because it’s familiar and predictable.
Missed Approaches: LPV missed approaches can be more flexible, but always review the procedure. ILS missed approaches are well-established and widely flown.

ATC Perspective

From ATC’s point of view, LPV and ILS are largely interchangeable. However, they might favor an ILS in busy airspace because the procedure is predictable and familiar, helping with sequencing. In tricky, unfamiliar or challenging terrain, LPVs can sometimes offer safer vertical guidance.

What to Choose

Both LPV and ILS are highly capable precision approaches. Your choice should be guided by your equipment, training, familiarity, and current weather. LPV isn’t automatically “better” than an ILS—it’s another tool in your IFR toolbox. Always check your charts (and notes), know your aircraft, and communicate with ATC if you have a preference.

Half Sized Blog Element (Single Author Style)

Half Sized Blog Element (Multi Author Style)

Quiz: Preflight Planning an IFR Flight

Ask an IFR Expert: LPV vs. ILS—Which Should You Fly in Low Weather?

Quiz: Preflight Planning an IFR Flight

Ask an IFR Expert: LPV vs. ILS—Which Should You Fly in Low Weather?

Full Sized Blog Element (Big Preview Pic)

Quiz: Preflight Planning an IFR Flight

Ask an IFR Expert: LPV vs. ILS—Which Should You Fly in Low Weather?

LPV vs. ILS—The Basics

Pilot Perspective

ATC Perspective

What to Choose

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