Which category of IAP provides both lateral and vertical guidance in accordance with ICAO standards?

A precision approach is the category of Instrument Approach Procedure (IAP) that provides both lateral and vertical guidance in accordance with ICAO standards. This type of approach utilizes advanced navigational systems such as the Instrument Landing System (ILS), which includes both a localizer for lateral guidance and a glideslope for vertical guidance.

The key benefit of a precision approach is that it allows for more accurate landings, particularly in low visibility conditions, as pilots receive precise information about their position relative to the runway. This level of guidance helps in maintaining the correct flight path during descent and landing, enhancing safety and efficiency.

In contrast, other types of approaches either lack vertical guidance or do not comply with the precision criteria set forth by ICAO standards. Non-precision approaches primarily provide lateral guidance and require pilots to manually manage their descent, while visual approaches depend on the pilot’s visual references and do not employ any electronic guidance. Standard approach as a term is less specific and does not distinctly refer to guidance levels outlined by ICAO. Thus, precision approaches are essential for operations needing enhanced navigational support, especially in challenging weather scenarios.