A precision landing system is described for an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV). The system may include one or more anchors configured for placement in proximity to a landing zone, a tag configured for securement to the UAV where the tag wirelessly communicates with at least three or more of the anchors. A controller may be configured to fly the UAV towards a centerline axis defined through a first airspace zone at a first altitude above the landing zone while descending towards the first altitude and then fly the UAV towards the centerline axis defined through a second airspace zone at a second altitude which is below the first altitude while descending towards the second altitude, and finally to fly the UAV towards the centerline axis defined through a third airspace zone at a third altitude which is below the second altitude while descending towards the landing zone.