Got It Covered?

Approaches with both GPS and VHF sources are common, so don’t forget how to use all your navigation functions. Sometimes you need ‘em all, and at the same time.

Elaine Kauh

Saturday, November 18, 2023 at 07:46 PM ET

Verified

Key Takeaways:

Modern IFR GPS units are often two-in-one navigators, including VOR/Localizer receivers and capable of substituting for older navaids like ADF and DME, but pilots must understand their specific capabilities and limitations (e.g., non-WAAS rules).
Pilots must thoroughly review approach charts, as ground-based navaid approaches frequently incorporate RNAV elements or require specific equipment (e.g., GPS, Radar, ADF) detailed in the Notes Box, which can impact approach legality.
Maintaining proficiency with both GPS and traditional VOR/LOC navigation is crucial for operational flexibility, ensuring pilots can utilize all available equipment for approaches and have viable backups for challenging weather or equipment outage scenarios.

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Remember that your IFR GPS, now standard equipment for all flavors of light aircraft, is usually a two-in-one navigator. Yep, it has more than the habit-forming GPS receiver displayed on a moving color map. Most units include a VOR/Localizer receiver, a page displaying a CDI (Course Deviation Indicator) needle, and is likely connected to a primary or secondary CDI as well. Maybe you also held onto an existing navcom with a CDI that still works. Even if you’re well versed in these features, they likely go unused. But don’t get rusty on that stuff yet.

Checking Boxes

My EFB has a neat feature that filters approaches at a selected airport by equipment level: “ALL”, “ILS Only”, “GPS Only”, “Six Pack.” Now, flying a basic six-pack C172 upgraded with a like-new, non-WAAS GPS, we can use LNAV mins, VOR, and localizer MDAs. The installation moved the older indicator and navcom to number two.