Chart Wise: Spirit of St. Louis ILS 26L

It’s a straightforward approach, whether you’re just getting your ticket, or you’re an old hand.

Jason Blair

Monday, May 06, 2024 at 09:07 AM ET

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Here's a step-by-step look at the approach to Spirit of St. Louis Airport (KSUS). [Image: Jeppesen]

Key Takeaways:

This instrument approach offers two primary transition options: from the STL VOR (requiring a course reversal) or directly from the TOY VOR from the east (no procedure turn).
The Final Approach Fix (FAF) lacks DME and can be identified using multiple methods, including IFR GPS, a VOR radial, an ADF, or the outer marker beacon.
The approach and subsequent missed approach involve managing up to four different VOR and localizer frequencies, emphasizing the need for active navigation source switching and checking VOR functionality.
Pilots must be aware of parallel runways (26L/26R) for correct landing and follow a missed approach procedure that diverts them to a different VOR (FTZ) located west of the airport.

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The “Gateway to the West,” St. Louis proper has a big “middle of the country busy” airport that many pilots might choose to avoid—St. Louis Lambert International (KSTL). However, the Spirit of St. Louis Airport (KSUS) just to the west of town offers a good alternative for a trip to this vibrant city with its co-conspiring jazz and barbecue scenes.

This Article First Appeared in FLYING Magazine

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