Plain English Meaning
An instrument approach where the airplane follows GPS signals to fly a published path down toward the runway, instead of using ground-based radio navigation aids.
Full Definition
Published instrument approach procedures that use the Global Positioning System as the primary means of navigation to guide an aircraft from the en route environment to a runway or to a missed approach point in instrument meteorological conditions. GPS approaches may be stand-alone (titled 'RNAV (GPS) RWY XX') or overlay procedures that authorize GPS use in lieu of conventional ground-based navaids. They include defined waypoints for the initial, intermediate, final, and missed approach segments, and may provide lateral-only guidance (LNAV) or, with approved equipment, vertical guidance (LNAV/VNAV, LPV, LP).
Context Anchor
Seen on instrument approach charts, in GPS flight plans, and during instrument training or IFR arrivals to airports with published GPS-based procedures.
Derivation
GPS stands for Global Positioning System, a satellite-based navigation system. “Approach” comes from the idea of coming nearer to something; in aviation, it means a published path used to get an aircraft safely closer to an airport for landing.
Why Pilots Care
They allow safe landings at many airports that lack traditional ground-based navigation aids, increasing access and reducing weather-related delays.
Grounding Statement
The GPS gives the pilot a defined path to follow toward the airport, but the pilot must still follow the published procedure and its limits.
Intuition Check
A GPS instrument approach is not just “using GPS to head toward the airport.” It is a specific published procedure with required equipment, a defined path, and published limits.
Example Sentence 1
With the ceiling at 600 feet, the pilot briefed and flew the RNAV (GPS) RWY 27 approach into the destination airport.
Example Sentence 2
During the briefing the crew noted that the GPS instrument approach offered LPV minimums nearly as low as a standard ILS.