BY ORDER OF THE SECRETARY OF THE AIR FORCE AIR FORCE ...

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AFMAN 11-217V1 3 JANUARY 2005
departure navigation. (MMLS will not support back azimuth)
6.7.7.2. Auxiliary Data Transmissions. To provide additional data, including
meteorological information, runway condition, and other supplementary information.
This digitally transmitted data may be displayed on appropriately equipped aircraft.
6.7.7.3. Larger Coverage Area. Coverage area may be expanded up to 60 degrees for
fixed-base MLS installations.
6.7.8. MLS Characteristics.
6.7.8.1. Accuracy. The MLS provides precision three-dimensional navigation
guidance accurate enough for all approach and landing maneuvers.
6.7.8.2. Coverage. Precise navigation accuracy is provided throughout the coverage
volumes.
6.7.8.3. Environment. The system has low susceptibility to interference from weather
conditions and airport ground traffic.
6.7.8.4. Channels. MLS has 200 discrete channels. Normally, Air Force aircraft will
use only even-numbered MLS channels. Even-numbered channels are paired with X-
and Y-band DME stations; odd-numbered channels are paired with W- and Z-band
DMEs.
6.7.8.5. Identification. MLS identification is via a four-letter system always
beginning with the letter “M.” The four-letter identifier is transmitted at least six
times per minute by the approach azimuth (or BAZ) ground equipment. Some aircraft
installations do not include the audible identification feature; in this case, observing
the correct 4-letter identifier on the aircraft’s avionics display can identify the MLS.
6.7.8.6. Data. The MLS transmits ground-air data messages associated with system
operation including the MLS station identifier, glide path information, approach
azimuth course, and AZ transmitter offset distance, if applicable.
6.7.8.7. Range Information. Continuous range information is provided to an accuracy
of approximately 100 feet (within 7 NM of the station) if the aircraft’s avionics
includes DME/P capability. The range information is compatible with existing DME
and TACAN avionics; however, the accuracy is downgraded to approximately 600
feet if using a standard DME receiver.
6.7.8.8. Operational Flexibility. The MLS can fulfill a variety of needs in the
transition, approach, landing, missed approach and departure phases of flight. Some
additional capabilities associated with MLS include curved and segmented
approaches, selectable glide slope angles, accurate three-dimensional positioning of
the aircraft in space, and the establishment of boundaries to ensure clearance from
obstructions in the terminal area.
6.7.8.8.1. NOTE: While some of these capabilities are available to any MLS
equipped aircraft, the more sophisticated capabilities, such as curved and
segmented approaches, are dependent upon the capabilities of the aircraft’s
equipment. Refer to your aircraft flight manual for the specific capabilities of
your MLS equipment.