Originally Posted by
verticalspeed
So I've never flown a GPS approach. I came across this approach into Renton, WA
http://204.108.4.16/d-tpp/0802/05396R15.PDF
It says it's an RNAV (GPS) RWY 15
Forgive me if this sounds dumb but if I have an aircraft with a GPS certified for IFR can I fly this approach? Can I use the LNAV mins or only the circling mins? Why is GPS in parenthesis? Is RNAV simply another word for GPS? I was under the impression that RNAV has to do with some sort of complex nav system only found in larger aircraft.
Thanks
RNAV can be a few different types of navigation. CLC (course-line computer) comes to mind. With the required equipment, you can "reposition" phantom VORs to another location for navigation. I've seen CLC in plans as small as PA44s. GPS is also a form of RNAV (or area navigation) The GPS in parenthesis just means that GPS approaches may be used also as in the form as an overlay. You'll see GPS in parenthesis on alot of VOR or NDB approaches as well.