I seem to be totally lost… I cannot get the localizer to work. I select a runway ILS approach and the co-pilot is supposed to be handling all the radio communications. I am trying to fly the 787 from OHare to Indy. I can fly the whole way but when its time to line up with the localizer, nothing happens. I fly right past the runway… Ive tried this several times and have failed every time… If someone could help me, I would be most grateful
Hi. Are you placing the approach details into the FMC? Or selecting the ILS approach during your planning which will automatically do this for you?
As MoveableMouse31 suggested, when you select an ILS approach on the Approach page (under DEP/APPR) the ILS frequency and course will be automatically tuned. (You need to have the destination airport set on the Route page) You should also see the approach waypoints on your ND (the magenta line). You want to approach the first approach fix AT OR BELOW the altitude of the glideslope indicator. It is hard to catch the glideslope when you are above it. If you arrive at the first approach fix at the altitude showing for that fix, you should be good.
Sometimes there is a gap between the first approach waypoint and the last enroute waypoint. If that is the case, you need to steer to the first approach waypoint using heading select. Look at the map on the ND. You want to come to the final approach course at a 45 degree angle or less, so the plane doesn’t have to make a very sharp turn.
Another thing to keep in mind is that you don’t want to get on the approach going too fast – 170 knots is good, slow down from there as you descend, extend flaps, and lower gear.
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Ya I select the airport and ILS runway when I setting up the flight. I can either select to manually fly to the waypoints or if I select the LOC, it will fly automatically. But when I get close to the airport, it just won’t pick up the localizer. Perhaps I’m missing a major step. I just don’t know what that is
It is possible the GS/Localizer frequency is missing or wrong in the scenery. Maybe try a different airport, or a different runway at the same airport if it’s easier.
Also, I think you can see what ILS frequency is tuned by looking at the radio panel, which is on the lower center console. From “Menu” choose “Nav.” It shows the tuned ILS frequency and course. They can be changed too. I’m not sure how well this actually works.
My 787 approach to Portland (KPDX) lined up with the course just fine, but the glide slope never coupled and I had to fly the glide slope manually.