Glide slope angle is typically between 2.5 and 3 degrees.

Glide slope angle is typically between 2.5 and 3 degrees.

• A. 1-2 degrees
• B. 2-3 degrees
• C. 2.5-3 degrees
• D. 3-4 degrees

Answer: (C)

Glideslope angle defines the vertical descent path you fly on an instrument approach, guiding you toward the runway in a steady, controlled manner. For standard ILS approaches, this path is designed to be workable and safe, with a descent angle that keeps you on a predictable track while ensuring obstacle clearance. The commonly cited practical range for this glide path is about 2.5 to 3 degrees, which translates to roughly 265 to 318 feet of descent per nautical mile. This range reflects typical design and operational practice, balancing a comfortable descent with safe clearance margins.

Choosing a range of 2.5–3 degrees matches the familiar, widely taught expectation used in training and planning. A shallower range like 1–2 degrees would produce a gentler path than usual and isn’t representative of standard ILS design, while a steeper range such as 3–4 degrees would be more aggressive than what most procedures intend. The 2–3 degrees option excludes the commonly cited lower bound of 2.5 degrees, making it a less accurate reflection of typical practice.