Definition
A standard set of RNAV approach types defined by the FAA for use at airports, consisting of a GPS approach to the primary runway, a GPS approach to the reciprocal runway, and a GPS overlay of an existing approach to another runway at the same airport.
Plain English
A planned mix of three RNAV (GPS) approaches an airport is expected to have: one to the main runway, one to the opposite-direction runway, and one that mirrors an older approach already in place.
Context Anchor
Seen on RNAV approach charts and in instrument flying discussions when a pilot reviews how to join and fly the published approach.
Derivation
Area Navigation means navigation along any chosen path, not just point-to-point between ground stations. RNAV is the standard abbreviation. 'Configuration' here means the planned arrangement or mix of approaches available — like a set layout — rather than an aircraft configuration such as flaps or gear.
Why Pilots Care
It enables flexible, precise approaches at airports without ILS or VOR equipment, improving access and safety in varied terrain or weather.
Intuition Check
Configuration does not mean the airplane’s flap, gear, or cockpit setup here. In this term, it means the published shape and arrangement of the approach path.
Example Sentence 1
The airport's RNAV approach configuration gave us a GPS approach to Runway 27, a GPS approach to Runway 9, and a GPS overlay of the old VOR approach to Runway 18.
Example Sentence 2
ATC cleared the flight for the Area Navigation (RNAV) Approach Configuration that included a step-down fix at 2,000 feet.