Definition
A combined avionics unit that integrates a GPS navigation receiver and a VHF communication radio into a single panel-mounted device, allowing the pilot to manage both navigation and radio communication from one interface.
Plain English
A single cockpit unit that does two jobs at once: it tells you where you are using GPS, and it lets you talk to air traffic control on the radio.
Context Anchor
Seen in avionics, instrument panel, and navigation/communication equipment discussions.
Derivation
GPS' stands for Global Positioning System, and 'com' is short for communication radio. The hyphenated name simply reflects that two separate functions have been built into one box.
Why Pilots Care
Saves panel space and lets the pilot manage navigation and communications without switching between separate radios.
Intuition Check
Do not read GPS-com as just a GPS screen or just a radio. It means one installed unit that includes both GPS navigation and communication radio functions.
Example Sentence 1
The aircraft was equipped with a GPS-com unit, so the pilot could load the approach and tune the tower frequency without reaching for a second radio.
Example Sentence 2
During the approach, the GPS-com unit was used to switch frequencies while maintaining position awareness.