In July 2013, we published “GPS Alphabet Soup” covering the five types of GPS approaches in some depth. A reader suggested a follow-on article with a table that gathers all the approach types and their key characteristics in one place. That seemed like a fine idea and it also affords us the opportunity to share some additional information.
Approach Secrets
Key Takeaways:
- The article clarifies the practical definition of a "precision approach" as an "Approach with Vertical guidance (APV)," distinguishing it from the official ILS-only definition and explaining how WAAS enables precise GPS-based glidepaths.
- It differentiates between linear deviation (common in enroute GPS) and angular deviation (inherent in ILS/LOC and mimicked by LP/LPV approaches), highlighting its impact on approach precision and pilot experience.
- The text compares the operational characteristics, components, and limitations of diverse instrument approach types, including GPS variants (LNAV, LPV, LNAV/VNAV), traditional ILS, and VOR approaches.
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