Definition
An RNAV (GPS) approach line of minima that provides lateral guidance to localizer-equivalent accuracy together with vertical guidance derived from the Wide Area Augmentation System (WAAS). LPV minimums are published as a Decision Altitude (DA) and can be as low as 200 feet above the runway, but the approach is classified as a non-precision approach because the vertical guidance is not provided by ground-based equipment certified for precision approach.
Plain English
A satellite-based approach that gives the pilot left-right and up-down guidance down to a decision altitude, often as low as 200 feet, using GPS signals corrected by WAAS for extra accuracy.
Context Anchor
Pilots see this term on instrument approach charts, usually as LPV minimums for an RNAV approach.
Derivation
The name describes what the approach delivers. 'Localizer Performance' means the lateral course is as tight and accurate as a traditional ILS localizer. 'Vertical Guidance' means a glidepath is provided, computed from WAAS-augmented GPS rather than from a ground-based glideslope antenna.
Why Pilots Care
It allows lower landing minimums than non-precision approaches, supporting safe arrivals in reduced visibility.
Intuition Check
Do not assume “localizer” means there is an actual localizer transmitter on the runway. In this term, it means localizer-like guidance performance from an approved satellite-based system.
Example Sentence 1
The airport had no ILS, but the LPV approach got us down to a 250-foot decision altitude in marginal weather.
Example Sentence 2
Localizer Performance with Vertical Guidance provided continuous vertical guidance all the way to the runway threshold.