When flying an Instrument Landing System (ILS), when should you make the decision to land?

The decision to land when flying an Instrument Landing System (ILS) approach hinges on several critical factors, primarily centered around visual references and aircraft stability. Opting to make the decision when you see the approach lights is sound because it indicates that you are getting close to landing and are in the final stages of the approach. The approach lights serve as a valuable visual cue, especially in low visibility conditions, helping pilots assess their position and readiness to proceed with the landing.

In this scenario, seeing the approach lights means you have reached a point at which you can visually confirm your proximity to the runway environment, and if conditions permit, you have the option to continue the landing. If the approach lights are visible, it signifies that the runway is likely within visual range, meeting the criteria for visual references required to safely proceed.

While the other choices may reflect common considerations during an ILS approach, they do not capture the essential timing for making the go/no-go decision as effectively as seeing the approach lights. Choosing to make the decision at 200 feet above the runway or when you are over the runway threshold focuses on altitudes rather than visual indicators, and deciding when the aircraft is stabilized at minimums is more about ensuring a controlled approach rather than identifying when to make