TOA glideslope vs. VASI

[152SIC]

For anyone who has flown into TOA (torrance CA.) Why does the VASI give you a red-red indication while you are on glideslope? I did the ILS29R recently, broke out early and noticed that we were red-red on the VASI. Had we gone to mins this could have been a bit confusing. Any insight would be appreciated.

 

[Flymach2]

Hi...

The glideslope for the ILS is at a 3.40 degree angle while the VASI is set to a 4.0 degree angle. You can find the VASI information in your A/FD.

Regards

 

[152SIC]

Yeah, I saw that info. But doesn't it seem a bit unsafe to have a VASI indicate you low while you are on the glideslope? If you come into TOA and fly to mins (200 AGL i believe,) and you break out to see a RED-RED indication, isn't a bit of confusion inevitable? When transferring to visual I thought the VASI or PAPI played a fairly crucial role, especially under low vis conditions? Am I correct in thinking this could be a safety issue?

 

[Flymach2]

Hi...

I certainly understand your concern, but consider this.

The DH for that approach is 250 AGL at the MM which is approximately 1/2 mile from the threshold. If you break out of the overcast layer just before this point, you'll probably see the ALS before you see the VASI. You shouldn't use the VASI until you have visually aligned the aircraft with the runway anyway. Once visually aligned, level off momentarily to intercept the VASI glideslope if you wish.

I didn't mention 91.175 because I assume you're familiar with that section.

Good question, though....hope this made some sense.

Regards

 

[152SIC]

I understand your reply and the ALS is definately what I initially utilize while transitioning to visual. However the VASI is a close second and when flying a citation jet onto a 5000' runway at night, the last thing I want to do after breaking out close to mins is reestablish myself onto a different glidepath since I was previously stable (or so I thought.) I also think that it could create a moment or two of confusion during the final phases of an ILS approach, and that is the worst time to be even slightly confused. It would be appropriate and safer for the airport to align the two systems.

Thanks for your responses, I really appreciate your input.

 

[Flymach2]

Hi...

My pleasure, Sir. Thanks for putting the question out there.
I happen to agree with you on lining up both glideslopes, but as we know, things aren't always as perfect as we want them to be. Continued good luck to you.

Regards