Plain English Meaning

A setting in the GPS that switches it from regular en route navigation into a more sensitive, more precise mode designed for flying an approach down to the runway.

Full Definition

A selectable operating state in a GPS or flight management system that activates the higher precision and tighter course guidance required for flying an instrument approach. When approach mode is active, the receiver narrows its course deviation scaling, may enable vertical guidance on approaches that support it, and confirms that the unit is configured to fly the final approach segment to published minimums.

Context Anchor

Seen on GPS navigators and flight displays while , arming, or flying a GPS instrument approach.