Ground-controlled approaches, where a controller talks the aircraft down: Precision Approach Radar (PAR) and Airport Surveillance Radar (ASR). This is where a control-tower background isn't a nice-to-have — it's the whole point.
Radar approaches don't put a chart in the cockpit — the controller uses radar to guide the aircraft to the runway. ASR (Airport Surveillance Radar) provides azimuth and advisory descent guidance to a non-precision minima; PAR (Precision Approach Radar) adds glidepath guidance for a true precision approach. PAR is found mostly at military and joint-use airfields; ASR exists at a number of radar-equipped civil and joint-use fields.
These approaches require a radar facility and qualified controllers — and their minima are developed to TERPS criteria (FAA Order 8260.3, with Order 8260.32 for USAF). Our role spans feasibility, radar minima development, and the controller procedures and training that make them work safely. With 14 years as a Control Tower Supervisor behind the work, this is the part of the lineup where we are genuinely differentiated.
Radar approach work depends heavily on the facility, equipment, and controller situation, so it's quoted to the engagement rather than a list price. Where you have (or are standing up) radar and qualified controllers, we'll scope minima development, procedures, and training support — and tell you plainly if a radar approach isn't the right fit versus an RNAV or conventional procedure.
PAR and ASR live entirely in the controller-pilot loop. Our founder ran tower operations for 14 years — so radar minima, phraseology, and controller training come from the chair, not a textbook.
Tell us about your radar facility and controller setup, and we'll scope minima development, procedures, and training support.
Discuss a radar approach Dave@airfieldairspacesafety.com