A flying friend of mine likes to say that you know you’re into something interesting when you have to sign a waiver beforehand. In the IFR world, I tend to think of approach procedures having an alphabetical suffix, such as RNAV (GPS) Z RWY 01, the same way. Whenever you see one of these, something is probably going to be interesting about the procedure, and the tricky part is figuring out what it is.
The GPS/ILS Approach
Key Takeaways:
- Alphabetical suffixes on IFR approach procedures signify multiple same-type approaches to a single runway, designed to accommodate diverse aircraft capabilities (e.g., RNP vs. GPS, LNAV vs. LPV) or different obstacle clearance requirements, which can affect minimums or missed approach gradients.
- A relatively new "hybrid" approach design integrates GPS routing with a conventional ILS final segment, providing improved minimums and flexible routing for aircraft with basic IFR GPS and ILS (but without WAAS), thereby modernizing navigation for a wider range of aircraft and supporting the FAA's navaid phase-out strategy.
- Pilots must diligently examine all approach procedures with suffixes to understand their specific requirements, equipment compatibility, and operational nuances to ensure safe and compliant flight.
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