Definition
The waypoint on a GPS or RNAV instrument approach that marks the beginning of the final approach segment. It is the point at which the aircraft, having completed the intermediate segment, begins its descent toward the runway on final approach course.
Plain English
A specific point, defined by GPS coordinates, where the final straight-in part of the approach to the runway officially begins.
Context Anchor
Seen on GPS and other area navigation instrument approaches during the arrival phase of an IFR flight.
Derivation
On traditional ground-based approaches, the equivalent point is called the Final Approach Fix (FAF), defined by a navaid like a VOR or marker beacon. With GPS approaches, the same role is played by a waypoint — a point defined purely by coordinates — so it is called the Final Approach Way Point instead of the Final Approach Fix.
Why Pilots Care
Crossing the FAWP confirms the aircraft is aligned for the final descent and must be flown precisely to stay within protected airspace and meet descent requirements.
Intuition Check
Do not read “final” as simply meaning “near the end.” Here it means the specific published segment of an instrument approach that leads toward landing or to the required go-around point.
Example Sentence 1
Approaching the FAWP, the pilot completed the landing checklist and began the final descent toward the runway.
Example Sentence 2
The autopilot captured the final approach course just prior to reaching the FAWP.