Definition
The conduct of an instrument flight rules (IFR) flight using a panel-mounted Global Positioning System (GPS) receiver as the primary means of navigation, where the GPS unit is properly certified for IFR use, the aircraft and installation meet the airworthiness requirements for the intended operation, the receiver's database is current, and the pilot complies with the operating procedures, equipment checks, and Receiver Autonomous Integrity Monitoring (RAIM) or equivalent integrity requirements specified by the FAA for that phase of flight (en route, terminal, or approach).
Plain English
Flying in the clouds or on an IFR clearance and using a built-in GPS to navigate, where the GPS is the right kind for instrument flying, the database is up to date, and the pilot has followed the required checks before relying on it.
Context Anchor
Seen when planning, briefing, or flying an instrument route or instrument approach with GPS equipment in the aircraft.
Why Pilots Care
GPS enables more direct routing and instrument approaches at airports lacking traditional ground-based navigation aids.
Grounding Statement
In IFR flight using GPS, the GPS is part of how the pilot keeps the airplane on the correct path when outside visual references may not be enough.
Intuition Check
Do not assume that any GPS can be used for IFR flight. For IFR use, the GPS equipment, its data, and the procedure being flown must be approved for that use.
Example Sentence 1
Before filing the IFR flight plan, the pilot confirmed the database was current and that the panel-mounted unit was approved for IFR flight using GPS.
Example Sentence 2
Before departure the crew confirmed that IFR flight using GPS was authorized for the planned route and approach.