Definition
An RNAV instrument approach procedure that provides both horizontal (lateral) course guidance and vertical descent guidance to a published decision altitude. LNAV/VNAV minimums require approach-approved equipment capable of producing a stabilized vertical path, typically using barometric vertical navigation (Baro-VNAV) or WAAS. The vertical guidance is advisory in geometry but procedurally binding once the approach is flown to LNAV/VNAV minimums.
Plain English
A type of GPS-based approach where the airplane gets steering guidance left and right plus a glide path down to the runway. The pilot flies the path the avionics draw, descending to a published altitude where they must see the runway to continue.
Context Anchor
You see LNAV/VNAV on RNAV approach charts, usually in the minimums section, when deciding which approach line your aircraft and equipment are allowed to use.
Derivation
Lateral comes from the Latin lateralis, meaning 'of the side' — left/right guidance. Vertical comes from the Latin vertex, meaning 'highest point' — up/down guidance. Together the term names the two dimensions the system controls during the approach.
Why Pilots Care
Enables precision-like approaches at airports without ground-based navigation aids, expanding access in low visibility while requiring appropriate aircraft equipage and crew training.
Intuition Check
Do not assume LNAV/VNAV means the airplane will fly the approach by itself. It means approved side-to-side and descent-path guidance is available; the pilot or autopilot still has to follow it correctly.
Example Sentence 1
With WAAS inoperative, the crew briefed LNAV/VNAV minimums for the RNAV approach into Aspen.
Example Sentence 2
LNAV/VNAV minimums were used because the aircraft met the required navigation performance for vertical guidance.