We got a quick response from Garmin. Its actually a bug in the underlying approach data, but that apparently ongoing bug is now handled by the navigators operating software. The reported issue doesnt have anything to do with database capacity. The issue began when some IAPs with LP lines of minima were coded with a Vertical Descent Angle (VDA) of 0 degrees. Software did not expect this as the IAPs are not supposed to be coded with VDA=0. If the IAP has no VDA (noted as Decent Angle NA on the chart), then the navigator can fly the approach as an LNAV-only without vertical guidance. If the IAP is coded with a VDA of zero, Garmin makes the approach unavailable from the database. Later software corrects this anomaly and restores the IAPs with VDA=0. Note that there was a Service Advisory Garmin sent out in 2013 when the issue was identified and they started to filter the affected IAPs from the Navigation database.
The article suggests pilots omit "to" and "for" in ATC communications for clearer, more concise transmissions, advocating for phrases like "leaving 4000; climbing 6000."
A reported issue of missing RNAV approaches in G1000 databases is due to a software bug concerning approaches coded with a 0-degree Vertical Descent Angle; keeping G1000 operating software updated, though requiring airframe manufacturer approval, is crucial.
The article clarifies the components of a vectors-to-final approach clearance, explaining that instructions to intercept and fly the localizer are often inherent, and confirms pilot discretion for descent when given a crossing altitude restriction.
I’d like to see a concerted effort made to remove “to” and “for” from communication. After all the word “nine” was replaced with “niner” to avoid confusion with the German for “no.”
So, instead of saying, “N1234 leaving 4000 feet for 6000 feet,” or “Climbing to 6000.” I’d instead suggest “November 1234 leaving 4000; climbing 6000.”
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