[daveatc]

Originally Posted by USMC-SGT

a pvt pilot can definately understand and track a localizer. A localizer in real short terms is a very sensitive VOR basically with one radial lined up with the runway centerline and it is much more sensitive than a VOR. Just tune to the airports localizer freq. as you would a VOR and then set the VOR to runway heading for a reminder and center the needle as you would a VOR, that will put you on an extended center line. You also have glideslope which will show you your glidepath and keep you on a constant descent towards the numbers but you dont need to worry about that for your situation.

A phrase I have used many times is "XXXX tower, I am having difficulty spotting the airport at this time, could you give me a princible direction towards the airport?"

Typically shorten it so you are not clogging the airwaves but a usual response you can expect from a helpful controller is..

"Cessna XXX, airport is at your 2 o'clock and three miles"

If you still do not see it you can ask for possible assistance with a heading, most towers if able will give you a heading if they are radar equipped.

I am not a controller though, these are just things that have worked for me in the past

I've always used 'fly recommended heading xxx. Airport is in your 12 oclock. 4 miles. Advise airfield in sight.'