What does a pilot generally use the Instrument Landing System (ILS) for?

The Instrument Landing System (ILS) is primarily utilized by pilots to facilitate safe navigation during landings, especially under conditions of poor visibility, such as fog, rain, or low cloud cover. The ILS provides precise lateral and vertical guidance to ensure that an aircraft approaches the runway at the correct angle and position. This system consists of two main components: the localizer, which helps align the aircraft with the centerline of the runway, and the glideslope, which provides the necessary descent angle for a safe landing.

In low visibility situations, the use of ILS becomes crucial because it significantly enhances the pilot's ability to guide the aircraft to the runway without relying solely on visual cues, which may be limited or completely obscured. This capability allows for a much safer landing process in challenging weather conditions, ensuring that pilots can complete their approach with greater confidence and accuracy.