RNAV SIDS and STARs

The RNAV SIDs and STARs have been around for a few years with more popping up every day. In fact, theyve become such an integral part of the ATC system that you hardly see any new SIDs or STARs that arent RNAV. Although weve published a few articles that cover certain aspects of these procedures, we still get a lot of questions about them. Its time for a thorough analysis of these procedures.

Key Takeaways:

• RNAV SIDs and STARs are modern departure/arrival procedures that use GPS for navigation, featuring precise, absolute speed and altitude restrictions to streamline air traffic control.
• These procedures significantly reduce ATC workload, enhance airspace capacity, and simplify clearances by allowing "descend/climb via" instructions in busy terminal areas.
• Pilots must carefully brief RNAV procedures, as critical initial speed or altitude restrictions can be found in general notes rather than solely at specific waypoints.
• While highly efficient, ATC can still issue vectors, speed, or altitude adjustments for traffic spacing, placing increased responsibility on pilots for thorough planning and adherence.

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