Definition
LPV is a type of GPS-based instrument approach that provides both lateral and vertical guidance to a runway, using corrections from a Satellite-Based Augmentation System (in the United States, WAAS). It is classified as an Approach with Vertical guidance (APV), meaning it gives glidepath information similar to an ILS but is not certified as a precision approach. LPV approaches typically allow decision altitudes as low as 200 feet above the runway when the required equipment, signal coverage, and minima are met.
Plain English
LPV is a satellite-based approach that guides the aircraft down to the runway with both side-to-side and up-and-down guidance, much like an ILS, but using GPS corrected for accuracy by ground-monitoring stations.
Context Anchor
Seen on RNAV approach charts, avionics approach menus, and discussions of what GPS-based approach capability an aircraft has.
Derivation
The name comes from how the approach behaves: 'Localizer Performance' means the lateral guidance gets tighter as the aircraft nears the runway, like an ILS localizer; 'Vertical guidance' means a computed glidepath is also provided. SBAS describes the technology behind it — satellites augmented (corrected and monitored) by ground stations to make GPS accurate enough for approach use.
Why Pilots Care
It allows safe, low-visibility landings at airports that lack traditional ILS ground equipment.
Intuition Check
Do not read “localizer” in LPV as meaning an ILS localizer is being used. LPV is satellite-based guidance designed to perform like a localizer with vertical guidance.
Example Sentence 1
With WAAS active and the approach loaded, the crew briefed the LPV minimums for Runway 27 instead of the higher LNAV line.
Example Sentence 2
After loading the procedure, the aircraft captured the LPV (APV with SBAS) glidepath and descended steadily toward the runway.