Definition
LPV is a type of GPS-based instrument approach that uses the Wide Area Augmentation System (WAAS) to provide both lateral (left/right) and vertical (up/down) guidance to a runway. It allows a pilot to descend along a precise glide path to minimums as low as 200 feet above the runway at suitably equipped airports, giving performance comparable to a traditional ILS approach but without the need for ground-based equipment.
Plain English
LPV is a satellite-based approach that gives the pilot a steady left-right and up-down path down to the runway, much like an ILS, but it comes from GPS rather than radio beams from the airport.
Context Anchor
Seen on instrument approach charts, in approach briefings, and when selecting a GPS-based approach in the aircraft’s navigation system.
Derivation
The name describes what the approach delivers: tight (precision-like) lateral guidance combined with vertical guidance. Officially the FAA classifies LPV as an 'approach with vertical guidance' rather than a true precision approach, but in practice it flies like one.
Why Pilots Care
LPV minimums are lower than most non-precision approaches, giving pilots access to more airports in marginal weather without needing ground-based navaids.
Intuition Check
Do not assume LPV means the same thing as an ILS. LPV can provide very similar cockpit guidance, but it is satellite-based and has its own published limits and equipment requirements.
Example Sentence 1
With WAAS on board, we briefed the LPV approach to Runway 27 and planned to descend to a 250-foot decision altitude.
Example Sentence 2
Because the aircraft was WAAS-equipped, it could fly the LPV procedure down to 250 feet AGL.