A pilot wants to conduct a Category II ILS approach with a decision height as low as 100 feet and RVR as low as 1,200. What is required beyond a standard instrument rating and a Part 91 aircraft equipped for a standard ILS?
- AOnly a current flight review within the preceding 6 calendar months is required
- BNothing additional; any IFR-current pilot may fly CAT II minimums on a standard ILS
- COnly a working autopilot is required; no additional certification is needed
- DA special CAT II authorization for the pilot, aircraft, and ground facility, per an approved operations specification or letter of authorization
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. A special CAT II authorization for the pilot, aircraft, and ground facility, per an approved operations specification or letter of authorization
CAT II ILS operations require specific authorization for the pilot, aircraft, and the airport's ground facility (e.g., an LOA or Ops Spec under Part 91 Subpart K, 121, 125, or 135), including additional aircraft equipment, crew training, and airport lighting/facility standards beyond a standard ILS approach.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. A flight review has no bearing on CAT II authorization requirements.
- B. Standard instrument ratings and equipment only authorize Category I minimums.
- C. An autopilot alone does not satisfy the full certification and training requirements for CAT II.
Category II ILS Approach
A precision approach with lower minimums (DH as low as 100 ft, RVR as low as 1,200) requiring special authorization of the pilot, aircraft, and ground facility beyond standard Category I ILS requirements.
- DH as low as 100 feet AGL
- RVR as low as 1,200 feet
- Requires special pilot/aircraft/facility authorization (LOA or Ops Spec)
- Airport must have CAT II-standard approach lighting and ground equipment
Memory trick: CAT II needs a special 'key' — pilot, plane, and place all certified