Which statement about descent on an ILS approach is false?

The statement that you may descend below recommended altitudes if you can see the runway is considered false because adherence to published altitudes is a critical part of maintaining safety and ensuring compliance with instrument approach procedures. Even if the runway is visible, pilots must follow the specific altitudes outlined in the Instrument Approach Procedure (IAP) until they meet the criteria for landing or transitioning to visual flight rules (VFR). Descending below these recommended altitudes can lead to dangerous situations, such as descending into obstacles or terrain that may not be visible during poor weather conditions.

The other statements hold true under standard procedural guidelines. Compliance with published IAP altitudes is indeed mandatory at glideslope intercept to maintain the appropriate approach path. Additionally, descent on the ILS should occur only after the glideslope has been intercepted, ensuring that the aircraft is on the proper glide path to the runway. Finally, clearance to descend at the Minimum Descent Altitude (MDA) is also accurate as it indicates the point at which the decision must be made to either continue the approach or conduct a missed approach if visual references to land cannot be established.