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Instrument Approach Question

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

GPS is a form of RNAV. You can google to find out more information on this, or look in the AIM. Look up VNAV and LNAV as well. As for the approach, an IFR certified GPS can be used to shoot this approach down to the LNAV minimums. Keep in mind it has a VDP. The Circling minimums would be to circle around to runway 33.

Quote:

Originally Posted by verticalspeed (Post 323041)

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.

Just to add in, some GPS/RNAV approaches will show the VNAV DA at the top of the chart, while it shows a MDA at the bottom. Unless you have VNAV equipment, you have to use the MDA at the bottom. This got me early on in my instrument training.